ISSN 2756-3642
International Journal of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development ISSN 3254-5428 Vol. 7 (1), pp. 001-009, January, 2019. © International Scholars Journals
Full Length Research Paper
Demystification of administrative de-linking: Farmers access to agricultural extension information and service delivery in Arumeru District, Tanzania
Noel C.Komba1, Malongo R.S. Mlozi2, Zebedayo S.K.Mvena2
1Department of Business Support Services, Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency, P.O BOX 11042 Dodoma, Tanzania.
2Department of Agricultural Extension and Community Development, Sokoine University of Agriculture, P.O BOX 3000, Morogoro, Tanzania.
Corresponding author. Email:[email protected]
Accepted 27 September, 2018
Abstract
This study examined the accessibility of agricultural extension information and service delivery to farmers during the implementation of administrative de-linking reform under Decentralisation by Devolution Policy. The study employed a cross-sectional research design. Data was collected from 390 respondents using semi-structured questionnaire. Quantitative data were analyzed through McNemars chi square test and paired t test where as qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. The findings revealed that, contrary to the administrative de-linking reforms objectives, farmers’ access to agricultural extension information and services delivery in the study area has remained critical. Findings show that farmers accessed more agricultural input, markets, financial services and information on agricultural technologies before administrative de-linking than after and it was statistically significant at p≤ 0.01. Moreover, high cost, long distance and shortage of extension staff were among limiting factors. Strengthening of local institution is recommended for improving farmers’ access to agricultural extension information and service delivery.
Keywords: Administrative, de-linking, agricultural extension, information, services, accessibility.