Participation,planning and linkages: International lessons for agricultural extension in South Africa

This article considers the experience with agricultural extension in less developed countries (LDCs) and the international shift to participatory techniques and practices. It examines the causes and effects of the poor impact of extension, the poor institutional and personal linkages in the field, and the poor planning in LDCs. All the role‐players in government, agricultural extension and research in South Africa will need to act with energy and commitment if the country is to benefit from the international lessons.