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Title
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Perceptions of Smallholder Farmers on the Effectiveness of Extension Services in Enhancing Knowledge and Skill Development : The Case of Binga, Gokwe North and Hurungwe District of Zimbabwe
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Creator
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Madzokere F
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Madududu P
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Ruzhani F
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Chawarika A
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Murimbika A
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Abstract
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The study examined smallholder farmers’ perceptions of the effectiveness of extension services for knowledge and skill development in Zimbabwe. Using binary logistic regression for quantitative data and narrative analysis for qualitative data, the study analysed farmers' perceptions of agricultural extension services in Zimbabwe. The study used a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, involving 306 respondents from Binga, Gokwe North, and Hurungwe districts selected using random sampling for quantitative analysis. Qualitative data were collected from 10 key informant interviews conducted with purposively selected participants using a semi-structured interview. Farmers' perceptions were significantly influenced by their district, the number of private and NGO extension staff visits, farm visits by public extension staff, and telephone technical assistance by public extension staff. Although farm visits remain the most popular extension form in Zimbabwe, access to extension services is still limited. Extension services from the government, private sector, and NGOs are crucial for agricultural development. Phone extension can enhance access to these services, complementing in-person services. Enhancing positive farmer perceptions of extension services is crucial for improving extension impact in Zimbabwe and boosting agricultural output. The study’s findings help policymakers understand farmers’ perceptions of extension services, identifying potential intervention areas for improvement.
Keywords: Extension Services, Perceptions, Smallholder Farmers, Knowledge and Skill Development
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Date
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2025
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Source
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South African Journal of Agriculture Extension
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identifier
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10.17159/2413-3221/2025/v53n4a17685
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volume
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53
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issue
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4
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pages
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164-182
