Extension staffs' perceptions of factors affecting co-ordination and partnerships in agricultural extension services in Rakai district, Uganda

Abstract

In Uganda's Rakai District, (with a population of about 400,000) there are over a dozen organizations involved in delivery of agricultural extension services. To improve service delivery, a model for inter-organizational coordination of extension services is proposed. The model stipulates that coordination depends on ; (a) perception of need for coordination, (b) planning for coordination, (c) communication and information systems, and (d) organizational and societal structures. The model is used to design a survey instrument to determine factors affecting coordination of agricultural extension services in the District. All extension staff (N = 173) was requested to complete a questionnaire that was developed after discussions with selected extension staff, farmers, and extension and local leaders. Results, from 149 respondents (86% response rate) are summarised as follows: The most outstanding means of coordination that were used by extension organizations in the District include: (a) working with farmer development committees; (b) involving politicians in planning ; (c) strengthening relevant associations; and (d) coordination mechanisms at the District level. Various reasons why coordination was important were identified, notably the following:
harmonisation of programmes to avoid duplication of services ;
sharing of experiences for effective and efficient service delivery ;
development of systematic procedures for delivery of services; and
it minimises wastage of resources.

Finally, the following recommendations for improving coordination were perceived as the most efficacious:
harmonisation of plans among organisations to avoid contradictions, duplications, or conflicts ;
establishing a common forum for exchange of information ; and
establishing co-ordination mechanisms at District, sub-county and parish levels.