Abstract
The notion that private agricultural extension systems supplement the efforts of Government of Malawi to contribute to food security cannot be denied. The agriculture sector has experienced challenges,(due to natural and man-made causes), to improve agricultural productivity levels for farmers, hence introduction of demand driven approaches through involvement of different actors which include the non state sector, was the possible way to respond to the challenges.
The study assessed the impact of private agricultural extension system to contribute to achievement of food security. The study looked at the performance of both public and private agricultural extension system and contributions made to support farmers in achieving food security at household level. Different studies assessed the coordination and financing role of Government since the establishment of the policy in 2000. However, limited studies have been conducted to assess the impact of private agricultural extension system in contributing to food security The objectives of the study were to review the current private extension delivery system, assess how food is achieved at household level and how this is translated to national level and also looked at influencing factors for effectiveness of private extension service for achievement of food security and recommend ways to sustain food security demands. In-depth interviews with households helped to collect quantitative information while Focus Group Discussion with men and women (cluster leaders and lead farmers) assisted to obtain qualitative information together with professional staff interviews.
The findings of the study indicated that there are attempts to achieve food security despite the challenges which occur during implementation mostly were related to natural causes. The research identified a number of interventions which farmers were able to mentions as part of livelihood diversification example good agricultural practices, coping mechanisms to shocks, access to credit and information accompanied by training. Activities towards empowerment of farmers was one success registered in the study which was through the trainings and information provided. This empowerment of farmers and coordination of extension services was also one aspect which was developing and could be improved if programmes and existing structures are well utilised and maintained for extension messages development, delivery and resource mobilisation. It is imperative for private extension to ensure that partnerships are developed that can be self sustaining and implemented through public -private partnership which respond to farmers needs in terms of resource sharing, farmer organisation and mobilisation of resources for sustaining extension development.
Further research can be done on development of a domesticated framework for pluralistic approach in attainment of food security using the existing models like One Village One Product which is spread nationwide and can draw conclusions and recommendations which can best respond to farmers needs as Malawi is refocusing its agriculture sector towards extension.