Challenges of disseminating agroecological knowledge and practices: experience from farmer research networks in Singida District, Tanzania
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Date
2026-04-29
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Science domain International
Abstract
Farmer Research Networks (FRNs) are essential for disseminating and promoting the adoption of
agroecological (AE) knowledge and practices among smallholder farmers. However, many issues
that restrict the efficient dissemination of AE knowledge and practices that frequently hinder FRN efforts are poorly documented. This paper examined the challenges of disseminating AE knowledge
and practices faced by FRNs in Singida District in Tanzania. The study used a cross-sectional
research design where data were collected at a single point in time. Qualitative data were collected
using focus group discussions, key informants, and In-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was
used to analyze the qualitative data. The study findings show that the recurrent obstacles, such as
resistance to change, are because most farmers are still dubious about AE practices because of
firmly rooted traditional farming attitudes and the labor-intensive nature of some techniques, such
as the nine-seeds hole method and compost-making. The findings revealed that FRNs face
challenges in reaching all farmers due to limited access to resources like financing and
transportation, and village meetings do not give enough time for in-depth instruction and hands-on
demonstrations. Gender inequality and social barriers to women's involvement in decision-making
and the sharing of AE knowledge are further restricted by social and cultural norms. Furthermore,
the lack of expertise in new AE technologies impacts FRNs' capacity to deliver current information,
highlighting the importance of ongoing tailor-made training. This study recommends that
policymakers should allocate more significant resources to addressing the perceived obstacles
associated with comprehensively disseminating AE knowledge and practices.
Description
Journal Article pp. 407-418
Keywords
Farmer research networks, Agroecology, Knowledge dissemination, Practice dissemination
Citation
https://doi.org/10.9734/ajarr/2025/v19i4992