Application of social network analysis in determining innovation information exchange at irrigation schemes in Zimbabwe

Irrigators holding important structural positions around agricultural innovation social networks are identified for their potential to disseminate information facilitated by agricultural innovation platforms (AIPs). Social networks at three state owned, smallholder irrigation schemes were analysed utilizing the social network analysis approach. The majority of those holding important structural positions; i) held leadership positions, ii) were AIP members, iii) were female and older than 35 years and iv) had been scheme members for prolonged periods. We find that actors that hold important structural positions have the capability to disseminate innovation information leading to more effective adoption and scaling.