Digital Advice for Agroecological Intensification - a Randomised Controlled Trial to Assess Effectiveness of Interactive Voice Recordings in Mali

Agroecological intensification is a key strategy for the development of sustainable food systems. The scaling of agroecological approaches and practices requires effective knowledge sharing mechanisms. Digital extension can complement traditional advisory services, especially in contexts where resources and reach are lacking or where security risks restrict access, as is the case in the Sahel. Interactive voice recordings (IVR) can work with standard phones and without the need for an internet connection or literacy. Based on a randomised controlled trial in Sikasso, Mali, this study tests the hypothesis that IVR messages increase awareness, knowledge sharing, learning and confidence around agroecological farming practices, such as intercropping, mulching or composting. While previous impact studies have focused rather on more conventional agricultural approaches, it is the first rigorous impact evaluation of digital training oriented explicitly towards agroecology. When aggregating across practices, significant positive effects were obtained for all outcome variables (awareness, intention to use, sharing of practice, interest to learn more, confidence in applying the practice). Effects range from 12% to 48%. When it comes to individual practices, not all outcomes are significant anymore, apart from mulching use, where effects lie between 24% and 195%. The evaluation results demonstrate that IVR-based advice has a relevant role in promoting agroecological intensification.