This study investigates the challenges facing agricultural
support services (ASS) in the Oshikoto region of Namibia, highlighting
inefficiencies, unreliability, and a lack of responsiveness to the diverse
needs of farmers within a context of limited resources. Utilizing a
quantitative approach, the research purposively sampled 200 farmers across
commercial, communal, and small-scale sectors to assess their perceptions of
the ASS's quality, relevance, and adequacy. The findings reveal significant
disparities in the provision of services, with a small number of providers
adequately meeting the needs of a limited segment of the farming community.
Particularly, communal farmers experience a more pronounced service gap
compared to their commercial counterparts, with many having little to no
contact with ASS providers for extended periods. Standout performers, including
Agricultural Mentors, NGOs, and Private Extension Providers, highlight
effective models for service delivery. These insights pave the way for improving
ASS-farmer collaborations and contribute to the formulation of a comprehensive
Agricultural Extension Policy in Namibia, designed to meet the nuanced needs of
the farming community and ensure the involvement of all relevant stakeholders.
Author(s) Details:
Jona Cecilie N,
Department of Animal Production, Agribusiness and Economics,
University of Namibia, Namibia.
Please see the link here: https://stm.bookpi.org/RACAS-V5/article/view/13919
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