Extension systems in Tanzania: identifying gaps in research

Abstract

Research relies on extension to disseminate findings. This was a library study to facilitate writing of a research background paper on extension system research in Tanzania for Innovative Agricultural Research Initiative (iAGRI) project. The specific objectives were to: review research in Tanzania on agricultural extension systems; review research globally on agricultural extension systems; and identify knowledge gaps in research on extension systems in Tanzania. Secondary data were collected from library survey of literature, websites, studies conducted between 1993 to 2012 in Tanzania on extension systems and lead international articles within the last 10 years. The study reviewed agricultural extension research documents focusing on methodology, analytical techniques, unique results and major recommendations. It employed a content analysis design and identified 12 research gap areas which were re-organized into five major research themes and 32 research sub-topics/questions. The identified knowledge gaps in research on extension system need to be addressed, in order to contribute to objectives of Feed the Future, and especially iAGRI in Tanzania.

Keywords: Extension Systems; Research Gaps; Tanzania