Abstract:
The adoption of digital technologies in cooperative management is
increasingly recognized as a strategic solution to governance and operational
inefficiencies among Agricultural and Marketing Cooperative Societies (AMCOS) in
Tanzania. Despite the introduction of the Digital Co-operative Supervision
Management Information System (Mfumo wa Usimamizi wa Vyama vya Ushirika –
MUVU), adoption remains uneven across AMCOS. This study investigates factors
influencing MUVU adoption in Tabora Region using a descriptive cross-sectional
design and binary logistic regression analysis. Primary data were collected from 100
AMCOS leaders and staff through structured questionnaires, capturing organizational,
technological, institutional, and socio-cultural factors. Binary logistic regression
model was used to assess the effect of each predictor on the likelihood of MUVU
system adoption, with results expressed as odds ratios. Findings indicate that 63.4%
of surveyed AMCOS have adopted MUVU system, while 36.6% have not.
Significant determinants included education level of leaders and staff, digital literacy,
institutional support and enforcement, financial capability, and alignment with
technological advancements. Notably, educated leadership increased the odds of
adoption nearly fourfold (Exp(B) = 3.789), while a unit increase in digital literacy
raised the likelihood of adoption by approximately 12% (Exp(B) = 1.123). The study
concludes that successful MUVU adoption depends primarily on the digital readiness
and competencies of AMCOS leadership and staff, supported by institutional backing
and sufficient financial resources. Based on these findings, the study recommends
targeted digital literacy training, strategic investment in ICT infrastructure, and the
enforcement of supportive policies to enhance adoption rates. This research provides
empirical insight into the relative importance of internal capacity and external
institutional factors as key drivers of digital system adoption among AMCOS.
Proceedings of the 8th CUK Annual Scientific Conference, 2025, on Co-operatives Build
a Better World: Re-energizing the Collective Power of Co-operatives in Africa.
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Finally, these findings offer practical guidance for policymakers, cooperative leaders,
and stakeholders seeking to strengthen digital transformation initiatives. Future
research should explore long-term adoption outcomes across diverse cooperative
environments.
