Is A Holistic Approach Relevant for Non-Governmental Organizations’ Agricultural Extension Strategies? : Case Studies from Tanzania

Abstract: Agricultural extension can play a major part in the development and adoption of sustainable agriculture practices. Local NGOs have a unique opportunity to serve as extension agents due to their acceptance and close relationship in communities. The paper argues that agricultural extension needs to adopt a holistic approach to the communities’ development to achieve a lasting and sustainable agriculture. This study examines four NGOs in Tanzania to see 1) how they provide extension services; 2) if they have a holistic approach; and 3) if the holistic approach is a conscious strategy. The findings show that a mixture of extension methods is commonly used by all four of the NGOs. More over the NGOs offer a wide variety of projects, which focus on different issues. This results in a holistic approach, even though this probably is rather a result of funding practices than a conscious extension strategy.