Evaluating E-Soko system usability and its impact on potato price transparency: case study in Musanze district

Abstract

The agricultural sector remains a cornerstone of Rwanda’s economy, with potatoes being a key crop in Musanze District. To enhance agricultural market efficiency, the E-Soko system was introduced to provide farmers with real-time market information. This study aimed to assess the usability of the E-Soko system and evaluate its impact on potato price transparency in Musanze District. A qualitative approach method was adopted, from surveys with 50 respondents and insights from interviews with different key stakeholders including, Farmers, system developers, Minagri, buyers, among others. The study focused on examining how farmers interact with the E Soko platform, the extent to which it influences their access to price information, and how it affects their market negotiations. The System Usability Scale (SUS) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) were used to evaluate the usability factors. Contrary to expectations, the findings revealed that many farmers experience difficulties using the E-Soko system. Among 20 respondents, 75% reported challenges with system complexity, 65% lacked smartphone access, and 60% cited poor internet connectivity. Furthermore, 85% indicated they had never received training on how to use the platform. As a result, 90% of respondents still rely on middlemen for market information and price negotiations. Only a few farmers occasionally accessed potato price updates via the platform. Challenge Number of Mentions % of Respondents (N=20) E-Soko is difficult to use 15 75% Poor internet connectivity 12 60% No access to smartphones 13 65% Lack of training 17 85% Still rely on middlemen 18 90%

vi The study concludes by recommending extensive farmer education programs, simplification of the E-Soko interface, the introduction of offline or SMS-based services, and improved infrastructural support to enhance system accessibility and effectiveness. Strengthening the usability and adoption of digital platforms like E-Soko remains critical to achieving greater agricultural price transparency and empowering farmers in Rwanda