Influence of Institutions on Lead Farmers’ Performance in Projects Applying the Rural Initiatives for Participatory Agricultural Transformation (RIPAT) Approach

Abstract

The use of lead farmers (LFs) in facilitating the uptake of agricultural technologies has been recognized as among the solutions to the declining capacity of government agricultural extension services. However, the performance of LFs during and after the project depends very much on the institutional eco-system in place. This paper examines how various institutions influence the performance of LFs. Using a cross-sectional research design, a sample of 384 farmers was selected randomly from a population of 1800 farmers in Karatu and Singida districts. Data were collected through a questionnaire, focus group discussion and key informant interviews. Qualitative data were analysed through content analysis and SPSS was used for quantitative data. The findings show eleven institutions, grouped into four categories, to influence the performance of LFs. The categories are local government authority, research institutions, non-governmental organizations and the community. Based on the Friedman test, perceptions of the respondents regarding the importance of institutions in enhancing the performance of LFs showed significant differences (p = 0.000). Also, comparisons among the institutions showed a significant difference (p = 0.00) except that there was no significant difference (p = 0.104) between Ward Development Committees and Village Assemblies. It is concluded that institutions do influence the performance of LFs through creating a conducive environment and providing moral incentives for the LFs to execute their roles during and beyond the project life, thus, enabling them to act as community change agents and social entrepreneurs. Based on the good performance of LFs in ensuring uptake of technologies by fellow farmers, and the enhancing role played by institutions, it is recommended that LFs and farmer groups as an institution should be integrated into the government extension system.