Evaluating the Effectiveness of Government Extension Services in Enhancing Rural Agricultural Innovation in West Africa
Abstract
Agricultural innovation remains central to sustainable rural development and food security in West Africa, yet its success depends heavily on the quality and effectiveness of government extension services. This paper critically evaluates the role of government-led agricultural extension programs in promoting innovation, knowledge dissemination, and technology adoption among rural farmers. It explores how extension agents serve as vital intermediaries linking research institutions with grassroots communities, while assessing the institutional, socio-economic, and infrastructural challenges limiting their effectiveness. Drawing on evidence from regional case studies across Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Sierra Leone, the review examines policy frameworks, training models, and participatory approaches influencing farmer engagement and innovation outcomes. The paper also highlights the growing role of digital extension platforms, mobile advisory services, and public-private partnerships in improving service delivery and scalability. Findings reveal that while extension services have contributed to yield improvements and innovation diffusion, their long-term sustainability remains constrained by inadequate funding, limited capacity-building, and fragmented governance systems. The study concludes by recommending integrated, data-driven, and inclusive extension strategies aligned with national agricultural transformation agendas to enhance innovation uptake and rural livelihoods across West Africa.
Keywords
Agricultural Extension, Rural Innovation, West Africa, Policy Effectiveness, Technology Adoption, Sustainable Agriculture.
Citations
IRE Journals:
Olamidotun Nurudeen Michael, Omodolapo Eunice Ogunsola "Evaluating the Effectiveness of Government Extension Services in Enhancing Rural Agricultural Innovation in West Africa" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 2 Issue 3 2018 Page 125-139
IEEE:
Olamidotun Nurudeen Michael, Omodolapo Eunice Ogunsola
"Evaluating the Effectiveness of Government Extension Services in Enhancing Rural Agricultural Innovation in West Africa" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 2(3)
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