BUILDING DIGITAL RESILIENCE IN AGRIPRENEURSHIP: INTEGRATING AI-POWERED PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT INTO HUMAN RESOURCE PRACTICES TO MITIGATE LABOUR DISRUPTIONS IN NORTHWEST REGION OF CAMEROON

Abstract

This study examined AI-powered psychosocial support integration into HR practices for building digital resilience and mitigating labour disruptions in conflict-affected Northwest Cameroon. Data were collected from 370 agripreneurs using a cross-sectional survey. Grounded in Social-Cyber-Physical Systems theory, Job Demands-Resources model, and Technology Acceptance Model, the study employed correlation and regression analyses. Findings revealed significant positive correlations between AI support dimensions and digital resilience, with perceived usefulness strongest (r = 0.52, p < 0.01). The regression model was significant (F(4, 365) = 55.96, p < 0.001), explaining 38% of variance in labour disruption mitigation, with perceived usefulness (β = 0.25) and HR practice integration (β = 0.21) as strongest predictors (p < 0.001). Both null hypotheses were rejected. The study concludes that AI-powered psychosocial support significantly associates with digital resilience and labour disruption mitigation when integrated into HR practices. Recommendations include investing in accessible AI support systems with strong HR integration and developing policies supporting digital psychosocial interventions.