Perceptions of extension agents on information exchange with cocoa farmers in the Eastern region of Ghana

Interactive communication between extension agents and cocoa farmers in Ghana is critical to the effort to raise farm-level productivity. This study sought to investigate the perceptions of extension agents on how prepared they are for their jobs, the support they receive from their employer and to what extent their training and other needs are provided. Randomly selected extension agents in the East Akim and Atiwa districts of the Eastern region were interviewed using structured questionnaires in October-December 2008. Majority (81.3%) have been trained at the various agricultural colleges and also in various husbandry practices thereafter. However, they suggested further training in areas such as needs analysis and extension approaches. It emerged that majority do not feel motivated because of low remuneration, lack of transport and absence of basic teaching aids. It is concluded that policy makers cannot afford to ignore the concerns of extension agents if farmers are to benefit from them. The implications are that the basic needs of extension staff should be met if they are to interact effectively with farmers and provide needed information, a critical ingredient for higher productivity.