Impact of social network structures on knowledge sharing dynamics for community empowerment: A study of mango farmers in Makueni County

Abstract

This study examines the crucial role of social network structures in empowering mango farming communities in Makueni County, Kenya, by fostering enhanced knowledge-sharing dynamics. It examines how social network structures (formal and informal) are utilized to facilitate the dissemination of agricultural knowledge, improve market access, and strengthen community resilience, and assesses the role of digital platforms (e.g., WhatsApp, SMS groups) in enhancing knowledge exchange and collaboration among farmers, and finally to evaluate the contribution of social capital (trust, reciprocity, and collective action) in building resilience and economic empowerment among mango farming communities. The study was anchored on Social Capital Theory (SCT). The study employed a survey as a research design. The target population was 12622 registered mango farmers. The sample size of the study was 292 individuals who were sampled using multi- criteria and calculated using Andrew Fisher's formula of 2023. Data collection tools were interviews, questionnaires, document reviews, and observations. The instruments were validated by piloting and reviewed by a panel of experts. Analysis was done through thematic narrative, which includes descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that these networks serve as powerful enablers of collective learning, joint resource mobilization, and economic coordination. Cooperatives and farmer groups not only enhance bargaining power but also provide vital access to inputs, training, and infrastructure, such as centralized processing and storage. Informal digital networks further accelerate the flow of information, enabling timely decisions on pest control, market prices, and climate adaptation. The study underscores the importance of social capital—trust, reciprocity, and shared norms as a foundation for effective knowledge exchange and sustainable development. Barriers affecting participation in social networks should be addressed, especially exclusion of small-scale farmers in the dominant networks, the need to promote trust building and transparent governance in networking where the networks should operate with clear leadership structures, regular meetings, and fair despite resolutions processes to sustain farmers’ confidence and long-term participation. There is need to set up local mechanism to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the social networks and how farmer groups are functioning, sharing knowledge and livelihoods, and strengthening areas with weak penetration of internet connections.