Examination of the Importance and Level of Application of Digitization
in the Rural Sector, the Case of Albania
ILIR TOMORRI*, SHPRESIM DOMI, GENTJAN ÇERA, REMZI KECO, ILIR KAPAJ
Faculty of Economy and Agribusiness,
Agricultural University of Tirana,
Tirana,
ALBANIA
*Correspondence Author
Abstract: - Agriculture continues to be one of the fundamental sectors for sustainable development in Albania,
referring to its contribution to the gross domestic product and employment level. Nevertheless, it confronts
ongoing structural issues concerning sustainable development. Farm size, productivity and competitiveness,
intensification of production, the efficiency of resource use, access to finance, modernization of the value chain
(VC), implementation of technology and information, quality and food security, are considered some of the
main challenges of this sector for our country. The digitalization of agriculture emerges as a crucial instrument
in dealing with these challenges, through the use of technology and information systems as an important
instrument for increasing the competitiveness and sustainability of the rural sector. In this context, this paper
aims to examine the importance and level of application of digital technology along the value chain in the
agricultural sector. In function of the purpose of the study, the questionnaire was designed to provide and
collect information on the importance of the application of the digitalization of agriculture, through the use of
technology and information systems by agricultural farms and farmers in our country. Based on the data on the
dominant activities and the typology of the farms according to the regions, the study areas have been
determined, respectively for the districts of Kukës, Gjirokastër, Fier, Berat, and Korçë. In total, 938
questionnaires were completed for the five respective districts, following the activities and typology of the
respective farms. The variables were evaluated using the Likert scale (1-5), and data analysis was carried out
through the SPSS program.
Key-Words: - Agricultural digitalization, research and innovation, productivity, competitiveness, sustainability,
smart farming, digital technologies.
Received: August 13, 2023. Revised: December 2, 2023. Accepted: January 2, 2024. Published: January 12, 2024.
1 Introduction
The rural sector in Albania contributes 19% to the
gross domestic product and about 35% of total
employment, [1], [2]. Agricultural and livestock
activities are the main source of income and
livelihood for residents in rural areas. The
advancement of the rural sector is directed towards
improving infrastructure, enhancing investment,
preserving the environment, efficiently managing
agricultural land, and ensuring food security, [3].
Limited access to quality inputs and adequate
financial services for smallholder farmers, the
consequences of low product quality, high post-
harvest losses and high costs of transporting
products to market, make it impossible for the
agricultural sector to Albanian food to benefit from
the opportunities of arable land and access to the
market, [4]. The sustainable economic growth in
Albania is intricately linked to the performance of
the agricultural sector. Nonetheless, the
development of agriculture encounters numerous
challenges, including uncertainties surrounding
land ownership, limited market access for
agricultural products, insufficient adoption of
modern technologies, a lack of collaboration
among farmers, the small size of the farms, price-
cost squeezes, rural exodus and youth
abandonment, high informality, [5]. The rural
sector encounters challenges related to the
establishment of market institutions, input prices,
access to financing, marketing and sales of
agricultural products, enhancement of distribution
channel efficiency, and adherence to national and
international standards for food quality and safety,
as well as administrative capacities to support these
processes. Developing human capacities, and
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equipping farmers with the necessary knowledge
and skills, will influence their decisions in the
selection of agricultural crops, management of
activities on the farm, sale of their products, as well
as increasing income.
A crucial strategy to address these challenges is
the digitization of agriculture, leveraging
technology and information systems as pivotal
tools to modernize the value chain and enhance the
competitiveness of the agricultural sector in the
country.
Digitalization of agriculture activities might
contribute to the achievement of a country’s goal
for more economically, environmentally, and
socially sustainable agriculture. Digital agriculture
represents new knowledge or new combinations of
existing knowledge transformed into technologies
applied to agriculture activities and, as a result,
aims to improve the sector’s performance.
Research shows that the implementation of
technology and information affects the analysis and
exchange of information, access to markets, access
to finance and traceability of products. Information
and communication technology (ICT) helps
improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the
agri-food value chain as well as agricultural
activities, in terms of data on input purchase prices,
their quality, product sales and food safety
standards.
In developing countries, information
technology provides several services to farmers as
well as other actors (processors, wholesalers,
retailers etc.), involved in the value chain, reducing
transaction costs and facilitating communication
between them. The digital economy in the modern
conditions of innovation development extends to all
sectors and becomes the basis of the
competitiveness of enterprises, organizations and
agribusinesses. According to, [6] technological
change is viewed not only in terms of “physical”
inventions or advancements but also as a process
that interacts with shifts in people’s behavior and
institutional and socioeconomic structures. This
encompasses changes in the market, organizational
forms within businesses, consumer preferences,
policy objectives, as well as the skills and
knowledge of various actors. ICT can significantly
contribute by providing accurate and timely
information to farmers regarding inputs, markets,
and prices. Often operating in challenging
economic environments with poorly functioning
markets and limited timely information, ICT plays
a pivotal role in addressing this information and
knowledge gap. Smallholder farmers face market
integration challenges due to high transport costs
and their inability to deliver sizable, consistent, and
high-quality quantities of their products. Digital
technologies (e.g., artificial intelligence, robotics,
innovation, Internet of Things, drones, etc.) are
applied along the agricultural value chain to
address challenges related to the food production
system, [7].
Information and communication technology
encompasses diverse applications and platforms,
ranging from computers and the Internet to radio,
television, and mobile telephony. The role and
impact of ICT, vary significantly based on the
specific technology adopted by farmers. SMS,
voice messages, short video training, audio
messages as well as virtual platforms effectively
enable the sharing of information between farmers
and other actors involved in the value chain. To
have a positive impact, the information provided to
farmers must be appropriate and specific, [8].
Enhancing the skills and capabilities of agricultural
producers, particularly smallholder farmers, to
effectively manage their farms necessitates ongoing
investment.
Digital agricultural technologies, innovations,
and data are reshaping business models and
practices throughout entire value chains. They play
a crucial role in mitigating bottlenecks related to
productivity, postharvest handling, market access,
finance, and supply chain management, [9].
Referring to the rapid changes that have occurred in
the agri-food sector during the last two decades, the
development and modernization of the value chain
is a strategy for increasing income and well-being
in rural areas.
Albania’s agricultural sector needs to be
transformed into a profitable economic activity that
can guarantee food security, attract investment, and
sustainable development and provide employment,
particularly for the youth. Farmers often face
constraints in the value chain due to a lack of
information and knowledge, farm size, access to
finance, technology, as well as support
infrastructure. Most of the small farmers do not
have access to stable and reliable information,
therefore in their decision-making process, they
rely on sources, traditional knowledge and
experience. Insufficient extension services as well
as poor access to information provision, leads to
the lack of implementation of new technologies as
well as to the reduction of productivity and
competitiveness.
In developing countries, such as our country,
agriculture is one of the main sectors of the
economy, so there is a need for a large number of
extension agents to advise and interact with farmers
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on innovative production technologies that can be
decisive for their activities.
Based on the above discussion, the purpose of
this study is to evaluate the impact of digitization
on the level of competitiveness as well as the
productivity of farmers and agricultural farms
along the value chain in the agricultural sector.
To achieve this purpose, the main objectives are:
1. to evaluate the level of digitization of the value
chain in agriculture with a focus on the
agricultural farm;
2. to evaluate the knowledge and skills of farmers
in the application of digital technology in the
rural sector;
3. to analyze the level of knowledge of farmers
about information technology exchange;
4. to evaluate the activity-technology adaptation
by farmers according to the respective districts;
2 Literature Review
The agriculture sector, plays a crucial role in
bolstering the economic prosperity of the rural
population through the creation of employment
opportunities within the agribusiness sector,
thereby establishing a pathway to enhanced
economic well-being. Research institutions must
prioritize the enhancement of technology transfer,
establish more effective connections between
researchers and farmers, strengthen agricultural
innovation systems, and develop value-inclusive
chains. Digitalization of the agriculture value chain
might be a path to address these complex
challenges. There are several definitions used to
describe the digitalization of agriculture. Digital
agriculture according to, [10], [11], e-agriculture,
[3], precision agriculture, [6], and smart farming,
are used to describe the innovation in agriculture.
Mostly digital agriculture, smart farming and e-
agriculture are concepts used interchangeably. In
fact, the digital agriculture (DA) concept includes
broad changes along the entire agricultural value
chain, [6]. Digital agriculture is defined by, [11],
“as the use of detailed digital information to guide
decisions along the agricultural value chain”.
Technologies such as smartphones, apps, global
positioning systems (GPSs), Internet of Things
(IoT), sensors, robotics, drones, and unmanned
autonomous vehicles (UAVs) are part of digital
agriculture. As a result, investing in the
digitalization of agricultural activities should be
associated with investments in building the
required competencies (i.e., skills, knowledge and
attitude) for the rural workforce. Well-equipped
human resources will precede the future challenges
of digitalization of the agriculture value chain.
Economic development in Albania is therefore
strongly associated with the performance of the
agricultural sector, [12]. Albania, being a small
developing country, also faces particular challenges
related to digital agriculture. In particular, farmers
face a great variety of complex problems, among
them the low level of digital technologies
implemented. Digitalization encompasses the
integration of information communication
technologies, such as the Internet, mobile
technologies, and devices, alongside data analytics.
This integration aims to enhance processes like
collection, exchange, aggregation, analysis and
access. In developing countries, ICT applications
are crucial in reducing information costs and
sharing information between actors. The evolution
of Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems
(AKIS) is notably propelled by digitalization. In
agriculture, digitalization is anticipated to
contribute to the technical optimization of
production systems, value chains, and food
systems, [13]. Agriculture also faces many
challenges, including those posed by the impact of
climate change, increased fluctuations in food
prices and disruptions in supply chains. Farmers
need to adjust their strategies for obtaining and
utilizing information. The process of digitalization
has the potential to stimulate a substantial
transformation in agricultural operations,
encompassing tools, technologies, and practices. It
provides a pathway for innovation and introduces
new methods for organizing production and supply
chains. Digital agriculture is on track to develop
systems known for their elevated productivity,
proactive nature, and flexibility in responding to
changes, particularly those triggered by climate
change. This transformation could contribute to
increased levels of food security, profitability, and
sustainability, [14]. The digital revolution in
agriculture stands to offer various advantages to
public and private participants within agro-food
value chains and the broader Agricultural
Innovation System (AIS). Farmers can enhance
decision-making on their farms through the support
of digital technologies. This, in turn, has the
potential to stimulate innovation and enhance
productivity, [15]. Digital technologies have the
capacity to create opportunities for increased
efficiency, the provision of new services for the
sector, and the enhancement of traceability and
transaction efficiency within value chains, [16].
Additionally, policymakers have the opportunity to
utilize digital technologies for the enhancement of
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policy design, implementation, and monitoring,
facilitating the development of more effective
policies for the agriculture sector. This is achieved
by increasing resource productivity, minimizing
inefficiencies, reducing management costs, and
improving coordination throughout the food chain,
[17]. Digital technology, the use of ICT
applications and platforms, increases the exchange
of information and the cooperation of farmers and
other actors who are part of the value chain in the
rural sector. Certain applications and platforms
provide data on soil moisture, temperature, rainfall,
crops, etc., enabling farmers to achieve higher
yields by optimizing and reducing losses and
increasing their income. SMS, voice messages,
short video training, audio messages as well as
virtual platforms effectively enable the sharing and
exchange of information between farmers and other
stakeholders. In this context, digitalisation and
digital technologies allow for precision farming
that may attenuate the environmental externalities
of agriculture while enhancing efficiency,
productivity and profitability for farmers, [18].
Agricultural farms and agribusinesses, through
digital platforms, access a wealth of information
and services that directly connect the farmer with
other actors along the value chain. The Internet of
Things (IoT) has drawn attention in recent years for
its potential to transform agriculture and food
systems, [19]. Studies show that the use of digital
platforms affects the exchange of information,
access to markets, access to financing, the
effectiveness of the operation of the value chain,
bringing tangible benefits to farmers and the
productivity of activities on agricultural farms. The
increased use of digital technologies creates
benefits for all actors involved in the value chain,
through more effective communication and
information exchange. Inclusion, efficiency and
innovation are key mechanisms for digital
technology to drive development in rural areas,
[20]. Digital agriculture represents new knowledge
or new combinations of existing knowledge
transformed into technologies applied to
agricultural activities and, therefore, aims to
improve the performance of this sector. Public and
private extension services face tremendous
challenges to not only reach the many diverse
farmers that require their services but to reach them
when and where the farmers need the services,
[21]. The majority of empirical research focusing
on the implementation of information and
communication technology in agriculture primarily
assesses its impact on the modernization of value
chains and the sustainable development of the rural
sector, [22], [23]. Building the human capacity, as
well as the infrastructure needed to facilitate better
connectivity and communication, is critical.
Through different types of applications, and
platforms, from computers and the Internet, ICT
will effectively enable the sharing of information
and data about inputs, prices and markets between
farmers and other actors involved in the value
chain. In smart farming systems, farmers can
monitor and control operations remotely, based on
real-time digital information instead of direct
observation and manual tasks on-site, [24]. Farmers
need to adapt and start using Internet technology
more intensively in the promotion and sale of
products to increase competitiveness, reach a larger
number of customers and ensure adequate prices
for their products [25].
The studies reinforce the perspective that
facilitating access to profitable markets for
agricultural products in developing countries can
empower smallholders to take advantage of these
opportunities. The digital transformation in
agriculture has the potential to increase production
efficiency, reduce excessive input application, and
improve farm profitability, [26]. The agricultural
sector has traditionally demonstrated a limited
inclination for innovation, particularly concerning
small and medium-sized farms. Exploring the
development of dynamic capabilities in conjunction
with the adoption of digital innovation highlights
the potential for business model innovations in the
agri-food sector, [27]. Concerns about the shortage
of agricultural raw materials, alongside the
enforcement of more stringent food safety and
quality standards by government agencies, have
prompted increased collaboration and coordination
among producers, processors, and retailers, [28].
Smallholder farmers frequently seek to capitalize
on the opportunities afforded by expanding
markets, given their restricted access to resources
such as land, financing, advisory services, and
timely information on market prices, [29]. These
constraints of smallholders highlight the
importance of policies and programs for the
digitization of agriculture. According to [30], the
envisioned monitoring system for the future should
involve a strategic integration of innovations in
current statistics, incorporating data from satellites
and sensors. It should also entail a more efficient
utilization of data flows across the agricultural
sector, including aspects like farm management,
invoicing, tracking, certification and labelling. The
key concept of integrated Value Chain
Development (VCD) models is to engage all
stakeholders in the value chain and establish
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connections between smallholders and input
suppliers, processing factories, or marketing agents,
[31]. The benefits of applying digital technologies
along the agriculture value chain are mainly in the
economic, environmental, governance, and social
domains. This data exchange between farmers and
other actors increasingly occurs through digital
means. Information and communication technology
(ICT) will lead to the revitalization of extension
services and agricultural advisory in developing
countries, [32]. Management information systems
are the basis for chain information systems that
support tracking, food safety management and
sustainability schemes.
The studies show that reducing specific
transaction costs (for example, by investments in
infrastructure, farmers’ associations, the
implementation of ICT in agriculture, etc.) can
enhance the integration of smallholders in value
chains. These processes carry significant
implications for developing countries. The rising
demand for high-value products and increasing
prices in international food markets present
opportunities for these nations to achieve economic
growth by expanding and diversifying their
agricultural exports. The current trend of
digitalizing all facets of production is poised to
bring about technical enhancements in agricultural
production systems, value chains, and food
systems. Agriculture has already experienced
numerous changes, resulting in a notable
transformation of its production processes, [33].
The digitization of agriculture boosts efficiency by
incorporating precise mechanization, automation,
and enhanced decision-making processes, [34].
More specifically, digital technologies
implemented can promote cooperation (i.e., due to
data sharing among users) among stakeholders in
the agriculture value chain, increase the market
access and the bargaining power of small farmers,
and reduce social asymmetries by breaking down
traditional social gaps such as the gender gap, age–
vantages and territorial differences, [6]. Accessing
information on agriculture will help smallholder
farmers to become more knowledgeable, and as a
result make more informed decisions, [35]. In this
vein, digitalization goes beyond the level of a
single entity, and as a result, it affects all actors in
the whole value chain.
3 Methodology
Digital innovations manage climate risks
throughout the entire agrifood system,
encompassing producers, markets, value-chain
services, and policymakers. An important
component of the sustainable development of the
rural sector is the digitization of agricultural farms
through the use of technology and information
systems as an important instrument of modernizing
the value chain and increasing the competitiveness
of the agricultural sector in the country. E-
agriculture involves the conceptualization, design,
creation, analysis, and implementation of
innovative methods utilizing ICTs in the rural
sector. Policy-making for agriculture is
significantly shaped by the shared ambition of
many countries in the region to enhance
collaboration with the European Union (EU).
Aiming to prioritize digitalization, the Albanian
government has drawn up several strategic
documents. The earliest strategic document was
“Cross-cutting Strategy for the Information Society
2008-2013”. This strategic document, it was aimed
to urge the use of information technologies and the
development of information technology
infrastructure as the key to its successful
implementation. The national “broadband
development plan” was another strategic document
that aimed to improve the networking coverage and
its speed. Later it was compiled the Cross-Cutting
Strategy “Digital Agenda of Albania” (2015- 2020)
which had three main objectives (1) increasing and
promoting electronic services for citizens,
businesses and administration; (2) the use of ICT in
education, bridge the digital divide and to enable
youth, and (3) consolidation of digital
infrastructure throughout the territory of Albania.
Agriculture was part of two strategic priorities in
this document in terms of e-government services
and the development of ICT infrastructure and
electronic communications. Another important
document related to digitalization is the economic
reform program 2019-2021. In the framework of
this program, Albania will further strengthen the
process of cadastral, with the aim of consolidation,
defragmentation, registration and digitization of
agricultural land.
Lately, there is compiled another strategic
document named “National Plan for sustainable
development of broadband digital infrastructure
2020- 2025”. This plan aims to expand high-speed
broadband infrastructure at the most cost-effective
to cover the whole country, and in particular to
shift more attention to the coverage of rural areas.
E-Albania is the online government platform where
public services, previously provided at the physical
offices, are now provided electronically to the
society (citizens, businesses, and NGOs). This
platform is conceived as a one-stop electronic
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office, where the citizens, representatives of the
businesses and NGOs register using their
personal/business identification documents. The
platform offers several services to the stakeholders
along the agriculture value chain, mostly related to
the grant schemes. The electronic service
“Application for the National Support Scheme for
Farmers” involves securing financial support for
agriculture and rural development, provided by the
Albanian government and the Ministry of
Agriculture and Rural Development. The aim is to
transition from the traditional method of physically
applying for the financial support scheme to an
innovative approach, using an electronic service
through the e-Albania platform. The Regional
Agency of Agricultural Extension (RAAE) also
supports applicants for grants and subsidies
schemes by using the e-Albania platform. This
agency plays an important role in supporting
farmers to upload the required documents to their
e-Albania account, as well as facilitating the
process of knowledge transfer in terms of using
digital technologies in farm activities. International
donor organizations too have supported initiatives
about digitalization of the agriculture value chain in
Albania. “The SARED” program implemented by
GIZ, has created in Korca region a meteorological
station where local farmers are equipped with data
and information about the weather, and prediction
of pests and diseases due to the weather conditions.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency
(JICA) in collaboration with the Albanian
Agribusiness Committee (AAC) has designed the
ABAonline digital platform. This platform provides
online information about production technologies
at the farm level, technical knowledge related to
animal breeding and plant production, fostering
contacts and cooperation among farmers and other
stakeholders along the agriculture value chain.
ABAonline also provides the opportunity for
farmers to contact agriculture and rural
development experts and discuss issues related to
agriculture activities. Another digital platform that
has urged farmers to use digital technologies to
access the market is the platform Agrotime.al.
There are also other web-based portals providing
data, information and or advice to the stakeholders
along the agriculture value chain. These online
platforms are created and managed by academia
and/or NGOs (e.g., Ubgreen, Agroweb), [12].
Referring to the above data (Table 1), it is observed
that the utilization of ICT platforms and
digitalization in agriculture provides farmers
various benefits, such as enhanced connections
with fellow farmers and stakeholders, improved
farm management, increased information exchange
regarding prices and markets, etc. To achieve the
objectives of this study, data has been collected
from interviews and questionnaires completed by
farmers of the respective regions. For this purpose,
the questionnaire was designed to provide and
collect information on the importance of the
application of the digitalization of agriculture,
through the use of technology and information
systems by agricultural farms and farmers in our
country.
Table 1. Challenges and benefits of farmers and rural entrepreneurship from digitization
Benefits from
ICT platforms
Challenges faced by farmers and rural entrepreneurship
Lack of market
information
prices
Lack of knowledge
of market
standards by
farmers
Lack of access to
extension
services and
research
Enhanced
connections
to members
Fairer relationship
between farmer and
traders
A well-informed
farmer can
categorize produce
according to
specified standards.
Information
increasingly used
to contact and
solve
problems
Improves
management
and
transactions
Transaction systems,
financial management
software, ensure fairer
relations between
farmers and other
actors
Financial
information makes
statistics easier for
farmers to
understand
Information
available,
interactivity
possible
Information
exchange
increases
Farmers can improve
information on prices
and markets.
Farmers are better
informed on
standards and
information can be
accessed online
Information
exchange enables
farmers to
discuss and solve
their problems
Source: Authors’ composition, 2023
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The questionnaire is composed of five main
sections, to provide information on:
farmers and agricultural farms, (family
members, gender, age, education, employment
and income);
data on productive resources (land,
owned/leased, activities, capacity,
investments);
technology data (devices, applications,
platforms, etc.);
data on income and expenses;
data on socio-economic factors.
Based on the data of, [1], for the dominant
activities and the typology of farms according to
the regions, the study areas have been determined:
Kukesi and Gjirokastra, Districts for livestock
production farms, Fier and Berat, Districts (for
vegetables in greenhouses), Korça, District (for
fruit cultivation). In order to identify the farms and
ensure the possibility of generalizing data on the
structure and level of use of information and
communication technology (ICT) in the selected
farms, the selection will be made randomly in the
farm database, referring to the above-mentioned
activities. The completion of the questionnaires
was carried out, face-to-face with the farmers, for
the five districts (Kukës, Gjirokastër, Fier, Berat
and Korçë).
This process took two months. In total, 938
questionnaires were filled in all the regions selected
as study areas in accordance with the activities and
typology of the respective farms. After completing
the questionnaires, the data were entered into the
database and analyzed with the SPSS program, in
accordance with the research objectives and
questions of the study. The indicators used are
evaluated with the Likert scale: (1-5).
The research questions of this study are:
What is the level of use of digital technology
by farmers and agricultural farms in the regions
selected in the study?
What is the level of skills and knowledge of
farmers regarding the application of digital
platforms in our country?
What impact does digitization have on the
productivity level of agricultural farms, and the
modernization of the value chain in the rural
sector?
Why is digitization and the use of
communication and information technology
important in the development of the rural
sector?
What are the policies and strategies that the
government and public agencies should
undertake to support digitization in the rural
sector?
4 Results and Discussions
The rural sector is one of the priority sectors of the
national economy and the government's objectives,
where the main focus is the development and
consolidation of this sector in the future. During the
last decade, there have been significant positive
developments in the rural sector in Albania, in
terms of government initiatives and strategies to
support farmers' activities through grants and
subsidies. However, the development of the rural
sector still faces problems regarding limited access
to the market for agricultural inputs, insufficient
implementation of modern technologies, lack of
cooperation between farmers, small size of farms
and abandonment of young people.
An instrument for overcoming these obstacles
is the adoption of technology and information
systems for the digitization of agricultural farms,
thus increasing the productivity of enterprises in
the rural sector. The data on the performance and
contribution of this sector to the gross domestic
product and the number of employees in the
country are presented below.
Fig. 1: Agriculture, value added % of
GDP_Albania
Source: World Bank, 2023
Table 2. Employment and population in rural
sector_Albania
Years
2010
2012
2014
2016
2018
2020
2021
Employment
43.9
47.4
42.9
40.7
37.3
36.4
34.6
Population
47.8
45.7
43.6
41.6
39.7
37.9
37.0
Source: World Bank, 2023
Referring to the above data (Figure 1, Table 2),
rural sector contributes about 19% to the gross
domestic product and includes about 35% of the
number of employees in the country, [2].
18,0
18,8
20,0 19,9
18,4
19,3
18,6
16,5
17,0
17,5
18,0
18,5
19,0
19,5
20,0
20,5
2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020 2022
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Based on the purpose of the study, the data
gathered from the questionnaires, for the selected
districts were analyzed as follows.
Fig. 2: Distribution of interviewed farms according
to districts
Source: Authors’ results, 2023
Regarding the distribution of data by districts
(Figure 2), it is important to note that 938 farms
were represented in this study. These farms are
distributed in five different districts of Albania, and
the percentage of each county in the entire sample
is as follows:
Gjirokaster (21.3%): Gjirokaster is one of the
main districts that contributed to our study,
with over a fifth of the data contained in this
region. This distribution shows a significant
presence of selected farms in this area.
Berat (21.2%): The district of Berat is also
represented with a percentage similar to that of
Gjirokastra. This shows that this district has
been an important partner in this research.
Fier (20.1%): Fier is in third place in data
distribution, with a percentage of about 20%.
This shows that even here the study has had an
important presence in the farms of this region.
Korçë (19.5%): The Korçë district is also well
represented in the study, although with a lower
percentage than the above districts. This
distribution shows that even in the area of
Korça there was interest in the research.
Kukës (17.8%). This distribution shows that
this district was also important in achieving the
goals of the study.
In the analysis of the above data (Figure 3), it
was found that only 6.4% of farms are run by
women. This distribution shows that, in most cases,
farm managers are men. In Korça district, the
percentage of farms run by women is higher, with
12%. This suggests a relatively higher presence of
women farm managers in this district, who have an
important role in agricultural management.
Meanwhile, in the district of Gjirokastra, the lowest
percentage is 2.5%, which shows a small
percentage of farms run by women in this area.
This information is important to understand the role
and concentration of women in the management of
agricultural farms in Albania. Differences in their
gender distribution between districts provide a rich
panorama of the structure of farm owners and
managers in the country, and this may have
implications for the design of specific policies to
improve the position and contribution of women in
the agricultural sector.
Fig. 3: Distribution of farms to its managers
according to gender
Source: Authors’ results, 2023
Fig. 4: The average age of managers of agricultural
farms
Source: Authors’ results, 2023
Referring to the data (Figure 4), from all the
farms interviewed, it was revealed that the average
age of the farm managers is 57 years old. This fact
shows a rich experience and deep knowledge on the
part of the managers of the farms involved in the
study. If we investigate further, we can notice
interesting differences in the ages of farm managers
in the different districts of Albania. For example, in
Fier district, farm managers have an average age of
61 years, which is higher compared to other
districts. This shows long experience and rich
knowledge in farm management in this area.
200 199
189
183
167
Gjirokastër Berat Fier Korçë Kukës
n=938
97,5%
97,0%
92,8%
91,5%
88,0%
93,6%
2,5%
3,0%
7,2%
8,5%
12,0%
6,4%
Gjirokas…
Berat
Kukës
Fier
Korçë
Total
Male Female
61
58 57 56
53
Average=57
Fier Berat Korçë Gjirokastër Kukës
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Fig. 5: The level of education of the farm manager
Source: Authors’ results, 2023
Meanwhile, in the Kukës district, farm
managers have an average age of 53 years, which is
lower compared to other districts. This aspect can
have an impact on the dynamics and challenges
they face in managing their farms. This information
is important to understand the profile and
experience of agricultural farm managers in
Albania.
From all the farms interviewed (Figure 5), it is
revealed that the education structure of the farm
managers is as follows:
Slightly more than 1 in 3 farm managers
interviewed have basic education (37%). This
shows that a significant part of farm managers
has a low level of education.
2 out of 5 farm managers (43%) have
graduated from high school, indicating that a
significant part of them have a secondary level
of education.
(12%) of farm managers have graduated from
vocational high school, showing a smaller
percentage of people who have certain
specializations in different fields.
Only (8%) of farm managers have graduated
from university. This percentage is lower and
shows that a small number of farm managers
have a high level of education.
This information helps determine the structure
of farm manager education in Albania and may
have important implications for the development of
training programs and policies to improve the
capacity and knowledge of farm managers in the
agricultural sector.
Fig. 6: It is farm work, the main employment of the
farm manager?
Source: Authors’ results, 2023
From the analysis of the survey data (Figure 6),
it appears that only 1 in 5 interviewed farm
managers do not have work on the farm as their
main job (20%). This shows that most farm
managers are employed in the agricultural sector.
For example, in Fier district, the percentage of farm
managers who do not have farm work as their main
job is higher, while in Kukës district, this
percentage is lower. This information gives a clear
picture of the nature of the work of farm managers
in Albania. The differences in this aspect between
the districts indicate possible changes in the work
structure and are important for the design of
policies and measures that improve the
development of the rural sector.
39%
56%
24%
42%
26%
37%
50%
28%
38%
49%
52%
43%
9%
6%
23%
2%
18%
12%
3%
10%
15%
6%
5%
8%
Berat
Fier
Gjirokastër
Korçë
Kukës
Total
Basic education Secondary education Vocational secondary education Higher Education
95%
89%
81%
68%
67%
80%
5%
11%
19%
32%
34%
20%
Kukës
Berat
Gjirokastër
Korçë
Fier
Total
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Fig. 7: Do you have plans for future investment on
the farm?
Source: Authors’ results, 2023
From the analysis of the above data (Figure 7),
it is noted that 27% of the farm managers
interviewed have plans to invest in the farm in the
future. This fact shows that a significant part of
farmers is motivated to develop and modernize
their farms. For example, in the district of Kukes,
the highest percentage of farm managers who have
investment plans is 78%. This shows the high
interest and commitment of farmers in this district
to invest in their farms. In contrast, the district of
Berat has the lowest percentage, with only 4% of
farmers having investment plans. This may be the
result of the different conditions of the economy
and the structure of agriculture in this area.
This information is important to understand the
ambitions and plans of farm managers for the
future and can help develop tailored policies and
assistance programs to encourage investment in
Albania’s agricultural sector.
Fig. 8: The indicator of the use of technology by
farmers according to districts
Source: Authors’ results, 2023
Regarding the use of technology by the
interviewed farmers according to the relevant
indicators (Figure 8), the average was evaluated
with Likert Scale: [1] Not at all, [2] Less, [3]
Sometimes, [4] Often, [5] Very often. From the
analysis of the survey data, it is noted that in total,
the average of this indicator is 1.55, which reflects
a relatively low degree of use of such technologies.
This indicator shows that, in general, the
interviewed farmers have limited use of advanced
agricultural technologies. For example, in the
district of Korça, the average is higher, with a value
of 2.29. This shows that in this county, farmers
have a higher level of adoption of advanced
agricultural technologies, using applications,
mobile platforms, remote sensors, and other
technologies with more regularity. While in the
district of Kukës, the average is lower, with a value
of 1.06. This indicator shows that in this district,
the use of agricultural technologies is very limited.
Fig. 9: Distribution of the level of technology used by the interviewed farmers
Source: Authors’ results, 2023
4%
19%
19%
19%
78%
27%
96%
81%
81%
81%
22%
73%
Berat (n=194)
Fier (n=183)
Gjirokastër
(n=196)
Korçë (n=154)
Kukës (n=165)
Total (n=892)
Yes No
41%
79%
81%
84%
82%
66%
72%
22%
8%
8%
6%
7%
13%
10%
22%
5%
5%
4%
5%
10%
9%
14%
7%
4%
5%
6%
8%
7%
2%
1%
2%
1%
3%
2%
We use mobile/smartphone based
Apps/platform for various information
We use technology with Remote
Sensors (land, air, water)
We use technologies that apply satellite
images
We use UAV technology (e.g., drones)
We use big data analysis technology
We use smartphone application
payment technology
Total
Not at all Less Sometimes Often Very often
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This information is important to understand
where there is a need to promote and encourage the
use of agricultural technologies in agricultural
farms in Albania. Differences in the use of these
technologies among districts indicate the potential
and challenges in changing and modernizing
agricultural practices in the country.
Regarding the level of technology used by the
interviewed farmers (Figure 9), from the analysis of
the survey data, it is noted that in total, 72% of the
interviewed farmers state that they have not used
such technologies. This wide distribution indicates
a low level of use of advanced agricultural
technologies in the Albanian agricultural
environment. 2 out of 10 farmers state that they
have used such technologies a little or sometimes.
This group indicates a limited level of
experimentation with new agricultural
technologies. Frequent or very frequent use was
reported by less than 10% of respondents. This
shows that a small percentage of farmers are active
and involved in the use of advanced agricultural
technologies. This information is important to
understand at what stages is the use of agricultural
technologies in Albania.
The low level of use shows that there are
challenges and potential for the development and
promotion of agricultural technologies in Albanian
agricultural farms. Differences in use between
districts help identify areas where more support and
training is needed for farmers in the use of these
technologies.
Fig. 10: The level of knowledge of farmers about
information exchange technology, according to
districts
Source: Authors’ results, 2023
Regarding the level of knowledge of the
interviewed farmers for information technology
exchange, from the analysis of the data (Figure 10),
it is noted that in total, the average of this indicator
is 2.35, which reflects a degree close to the
average. This shows that, in general, farmers have a
limited level of knowledge about information
exchange technologies. In the district of Korça, the
average is higher, with a value of 2.65. This shows
that in this district, farmers have more advanced
knowledge about the use of information exchange
technologies. Gjirokastra is closely followed with
an average of 2.55, the highest indicator after
Korça. While in the district of Kukës, the average
is lower, with a value of 2.15. This indicator shows
that in this district, farmers’ knowledge of
information exchange technologies is more limited.
Fig. 11: Farmers’ level of knowledge about information exchange technology
Source: Authors’ results, 2023
2,19 2,21 2,55 2,65
2,15
Average=2,35
Berat Fier Gjirokastër Korçë Kukës
29%
40%
55%
63%
19%
41%
22%
24%
18%
16%
11%
18%
27%
23%
17%
9%
16%
18%
16%
10%
8%
10%
32%
15%
6%
3%
3%
2%
22%
7%
I use different videos from the Internet to get
the information, that I need
I use text and sms via phone to be informed
about different aspects
I have knowledge on the use of google drive,
drop box, etc.
I have knowledge on using office and similar
programs
I provide information through the media (TV,
etc.)
Total
Strongly against Against Neutral Agree Strongly agree
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This information is important to understand
how many farmers are equipped with knowledge
and skills in using information exchange
technologies. Differences between districts help
identify areas where training and knowledge
improvement are needed in this area to improve
interaction and information sharing among farmers.
From the analysis of the survey data (Figure
11), it can be seen that in total, the majority of
interviewed farmers are strongly against (41%) or
against (18%), while 22% of them agree (15%) or
strongly agree (7%). This shows that farmers'
knowledge about information exchange
technologies is generally limited. This information
is important to understand that most of the
interviewed farmers need training and education to
increase their level of knowledge regarding the use
of information exchange technologies. Such
trainings can help farmers efficiently use modern
technologies to obtain and share information that
can improve the production and management of
their farms.
Fig. 12: Adaptation activity-technology, according
to districts
Source: Authors’ results, 2023
Regarding, the adaptation activity-technology
indicator, from the analysis of the survey data
(Figure 12), it is noted that in total, the average of
this indicator is 3.54, which reflects a degree above
average. This shows that, in general, the
interviewed farmers feel adapted to the technology
and evaluate it positively for their work. However,
the lowest value of this indicator is in Fier (3.09),
while other regions have almost the same rate as
the total. This indicates that in Fier, there is
probably a need for more improvements and
investments in farm technology to increase the
adaptability and availability of technology.
This information is important to understand
what farmers think about the role of technology on
their farms and what can be done to improve their
use and adaptation to technology.
From the analysis of the survey data for the
adaptation of the activity-technology indicator by
farmers (Figure 13), it is observed that in total,
most of the interviewed farmers agree (45%) or
completely agree (12%) with such statements. This
indicates that a significant proportion of farmers
feel adapted and comfortable with the use of
technology in their daily work on the farm. A
smaller percentage of farmers, about 11%, express
against (6%) or completely against (5%) such
statements. This information provides an important
perspective on farmers’ attitudes and perceptions
regarding technology, and can help develop
strategies and policies for more extensive and
efficient use of technology on their farms.
Fig. 13: The adaptation of the activity-technology indicator by farmers
Source: Authors’ results, 2023
3,63 3,09 3,63 3,65 3,73
Average=3,54
Berat Fier Gjirokastër Korçë Kukës
5%
5%
5%
5%
5%
6%
5%
7%
6%
6%
33%
34%
31%
28%
32%
46%
45%
44%
44%
45%
9%
10%
13%
18%
12%
The technology is suitable for my work
Technology is available, when I need it
Technology is important to my work
Technology can help me face
unexpected situations
Total
Strongly against Against Neutral Agree Strongly agree
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From the data analysis, we conclude with some
main findings:
Limited technology usage: This highlights the
importance for public institutions and agencies to
encourage and support farmers in accessing and
utilizing essential technologies, thereby enhancing
productivity and sustainability in farming activities.
Regional differences in technology use:
Discrepancies in the adoption of agricultural
technologies among districts underscore the
importance of tailoring the development and
implementation of agricultural policies.
Technological knowledge gap: The evident lack of
technological knowledge indicates a significant
need for initiatives and strategies, in addressing this
knowledge gap.
Adaptability to technology: The analyzed data
indicates a positive inclination among most farmers
toward technology. However, it is crucial to
provide support to facilitate their adaptation to
technology effectively.
5 Conclusions and Recommendations
Through this study, the importance and level of
application of digitization in the agricultural sector
for the regions selected in the study in Albania
were examined. The findings of the paper, have
provided data regarding the identification of
opportunities and obstacles in the adoption of
digital technologies in rural areas.
In total, 938 questionnaires were filled out, and
distributed in 5 districts: Gjirokastër (21.3%), Berat
(21.2%), Fier (20.1%), Korçë (19.5%) and Kukës
(17.8%). From the analyzed data it turns out that,
the average size of the farmers’ families
interviewed for the districts selected in the study
consists of 4.3 members. Of the interviewed
farmers, it turns out that only (6.4%) of them are
managed by women. The average age of the
interviewed farm managers is (57 years old).
The data show that (37%) of the farm managers
interviewed have basic education, (43%) of farm
managers have secondary education, (12%) of them
have finished vocational secondary education and
only (8%) of them have higher education. From the
above data, it results that (80%) of the interviewed
farmers have as their main activity, work on the
farm. As for making investments in the farm, it
turns out that (27%) of the farmers interviewed
have plans to invest in the farm in the future.
Regarding the use of technology by the farmers
interviewed, it shows a relatively low level of
technology use in their farms.
Concerning the level of knowledge about the
exchange of information technology, this indicator
results in an average degree of use by the
interviewed farmers. The data of the questionnaires
for the indicator, adaptation activity-technology,
show an above-average assessment of the need by
farmers for the use of technology in their
work/activity.
Based on the data collected in this study, digital
technology in agriculture is perceived positively by
all interviewed farmers. They see it as an
opportunity to optimize inputs, increase
productivity and business competitiveness, improve
resources, and efficiency, and speed up work
processes. The digitization of economic activities,
especially of small farms, increases the potential to
strengthen and diversify agriculture as part of a
sustainable development model that will improve
livelihoods and create more jobs in rural areas.
The ICT platforms can help to reduce price
market distortions, better market access, increase
production and income, and improve productivity
and household living standards in rural areas.
Applying digital technologies along the agriculture
value chain is seen as a tool that might promote
cooperation among stakeholders, increase market
access, and strengthen the bargaining power of
small-scale farmers.
Digitalization can decrease agricultural
production costs, enhance crop yields, and augment
farmers’ income. It is essential to pay special
attention when designing strategies for the
integration of digital technologies among small
farmers. This involves employing innovative
approaches while also acknowledging and
respecting the experience and traditional practices
in agriculture. A well-functioning rural advisory
service can play a crucial role in supporting these
endeavors. Applying digital technologies is
creating the opportunity to integrate smallholder
farms into the agriculture value chain, and foster
socializing even among farmers and other
stakeholders along the agriculture value chain.
Digital platforms offer best practices,
incorporating innovative technologies, facilitating
interaction among stakeholders, and providing data
access to ensure the effective utilization of ICTs in
agriculture. Most respondents have shown a high
interest in applying technology in their business,
but on the other hand, they also face difficulties in
accessing information about digitization. The main
obstacle to the application and maintenance of
technology is the lack of knowledge and skills. To
address the challenges facing the digitalization of
the agricultural value chain in Albania, it would be
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reasonable to undertake training related to
innovation and different types of digital
technologies along the agricultural value chains.
This multi-stakeholder approach would ensure the
inclusiveness of those stakeholders related to the
development of the agricultural value chain and
accelerate the acceleration of digital technologies.
The digitization of agriculture must be
inclusive, equipping those stakeholders especially
smallholder farmers, with the necessary digital
competencies.
Policymakers should consider digital
technologies as a tool to transform the labor market
and attract youth engagement in rural areas.
Vocational schools in Albania should offer study
programs and/or courses specifically related to the
digitization of agriculture. Digital technologies
applied in the agriculture value chain are an
important tool to empower women and, as a result,
reduce the gender gap in this sector. Stakeholders
that can play an important role in engaging youth
and women in agriculture through digital
technologies are the government, the private sector,
and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Also, in the function of the digitization of
agricultural value chains, it is necessary the update
of curricula and the development of study programs
and courses in vocational schools and universities.
This strategy should be seen in two directions; first,
digital tool for knowledge transfer and second,
building competencies for technologies applied to
activities along the agricultural value chain. To
build professional competencies about digital
technologies applied in the agriculture value chain,
it must update the curricula program by creating
study programs and or courses that specifically is
related to the digitalization of the agriculture value
chain. Encouragement and cooperation between
government institutions, international
organizations, researchers, academic communities
as well as business actors to exchange knowledge
and experiences as well as to promote best
practices for the digitalization of agriculture.
The design and implementation of national
strategies for digital agriculture should be oriented
towards achieving digital transformation and
realizing the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) in the rural sector.
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WSEAS TRANSACTIONS on BUSINESS and ECONOMICS
DOI: 10.37394/23207.2024.21.44
Ilir Tomorri, Shpresim Domi,
Gentjan Çera, Remzi Keco, Ilir Kapaj
E-ISSN: 2224-2899
542
Volume 21, 2024
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Contribution of Individual Authors to the
Creation of a Scientific Article (Ghostwriting
Policy)
The authors have contributed together in the
preparation of the paper, according to the
respective sections: conceptualization,
questionnaire preparation, project administration,
literature review, methodology, data collection and
analysis, results, supervision, writing, revision and
editing of the paper.
Sources of Funding for Research Presented in a
Scientific Article or Scientific Article Itself.
This study was conducted within the project of the
National Agency of Scientific Research and
Innovation (NASRI) and Agricultural University of
Tirana. We would like to thank the National
Agency of Scientific Research and Innovation for
their financing and contributions to this research.
Conflict of Interest
The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
Creative Commons Attribution License 4.0
(Attribution 4.0 International, CC BY 4.0)
This article is published under the terms of the
Creative Commons Attribution License 4.0
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/deed.e
n_US
WSEAS TRANSACTIONS on BUSINESS and ECONOMICS
DOI: 10.37394/23207.2024.21.44
Ilir Tomorri, Shpresim Domi,
Gentjan Çera, Remzi Keco, Ilir Kapaj
E-ISSN: 2224-2899
543
Volume 21, 2024