Review on the role of agricultural extension services in improving farmers’ livelihoods in Ethiopia.

Abstract

Agricultural extension services have long been recognized as a transformative force in Ethiopia’s agrarian economy, playing a central role in enhancing the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers. This review critically examines the historical evolution, operational mechanisms, and current performance of agricultural extension systems in Ethiopia. Despite extensive government investments and evolving models—from top-down interventions to participatory and pluralistic approaches—the impact of extension remains constrained by a multitude of systemic, institutional, and contextual challenges. These include low development agent (DA) capacity, weak farmer participation, insufficient funding, poor research-extension linkages, and recurring external shocks such as conflict, climate change, and macroeconomic instability. The study concludes that while extension services have positively influenced productivity, technology adoption, market access, and climate resilience, a transformative shift toward inclusive, well-funded, and adaptive extension systems is imperative. A future-focused extension system must integrate digital tools, climate-smart practices, and multi-stakeholder engagement to ensure sustainable agricultural development and resilient rural livelihoods in Ethiopia.

Keywords: Agricultural extension, Ethiopia, farmers’ livelihoods, Role

DOI: 10.7176/JESD/16-7-04

Publication date: October 31^st 2025