Agricultural experts have expressed concerns over the existing gap between extension workers and farmers across the country.
They say, a total of 7,000 more extension workers are required to fill the widening gap.
According to Emmanuel Muhoozi, the principal agriculture extension coordinator at the agriculture ministry, the unmatched ratio between farmers and extension workers is a leading cause for low farm production.
He highlighted the need to recruit more extension workers, but cited the lack of funds, something he says explains the existing challenges in the agricultural sector.
“The Government does not have enough funds to recruit more extension workers. I’m sure we would have moved a little further in farm production if we had the matching ratios in the field,” Muhoozi said.
Muhoozi made the remarks during the Uganda Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services (UFAAS) partners strategic breakfast meeting at Arch Apartments and Hotel in Ntinda, Kampala on March 11, 2025.
Currently, Uganda has a total of 3,346 agriculture extension workers, but according to Muhoozi, the country needs 10,000 extension workers to match the ratios.
Beatrice Luzobe, the chief executive officer of UFAAS, underscored the need for strengthening the extension system, noting that the effort would contribute to increased farm yields to support the country’s food security.
She explained that the extension team plays a crucial role in sensitising farmers on new agriculture technologies that help to boost productivity.
“You can never underestimate the role played by extension workers as they help to improve farming. There is a need to have their numbers increased,” Luzobe said.
In Uganda, while the agriculture ministry oversees agricultural extension services, a pluralistic approach recognises and supports non-state actors like private service providers, NGOs, and cooperatives in delivering these services alongside government efforts.
A severe shortage of agricultural extension workers is another key issue identified in the report. With many veterinary and agricultural officer posts vacant, farmers have inconsistent access to information on improved crop varieties, which limits their ability to maximize productivity.
Experts agree that increased investment in extension services is necessary to bridge the gap between research, policy, and implementation, ensuring that farmers can benefit from innovations that could transform the agricultural sector.
