Implementing the Unified Extension System in the Context of Decentralisation: The Case of Tororo District

Abstract

The implementation of the Unified Extension System (UES) in the context of decentralisation was assessed through a census survey of the extension staff of Tororo district, using a self-administered questionnaire. The results indicated that decentralisation reduced the effectiveness of the extension staff by increasing the farmer to staff ratio from 1:850 to 1: 1,100. This together with associated constraints, caused staff unfavorable attitudes towards decentralisation, with a mean score of 2.27 on a 5-level likert scale. The main challenge for the extension staff is, therefore, to be able to deliver services in a system they consider to be hostile and yet is responsible for hiring and firing them. Key words: unified extension system Eastern Africa Journal of Rural Development (2002) 18, 1-7