Abstract:
This study examined the sustainability of small farmer groups in extension, in
Sumbawanga District, Tanzania. The specific objectives were to examine extension
activities done by farmer groups; identifying factors influencing sustainability of SFGs and
challenges faced in sustaining those groups. The study involved 80 respondents from two
project villages and employed a cross-sectional design. Data were collected using
interview schedule, focus group discussion (FGDs) and key informants interviews. The
data were analyzed using content analysis and SPSSs computer programme mainly
frequencies and percentages to describe the major variables. in the case of extension
activities of the groups the study revealed that farmer groups were performing extension
activities including demonstration of technologies in ox ripping and weeding integrated
with the use of legume cover crops (87.5%) and distribution of improved inputs. Other
extension activities that can be done by SFGs includes providing market information;
education to livestock keepers on improved practices; and livestock dipping services.
Regarding sustainability of the groups, the findings show that low participation of
members’ in group activities; perceived trend of membership; activeness of members in
group activities after donor withdrawal have negatively influenced sustainability of the
groups. The groups were still dependent and their sustainability is doubtful. The groups
were faced with challenges of availability of donors; committed group leadership; poor
performance of the previous cooperatives and unreliable rainfall that made some group
projects fail. This study recommended that to increase sustainability of the groups, donors
should put emphasis on empowering the groups with skills and knowledge that enable
them implement project activities with minimum external dependency, encourage self-
reliance and involve village authorities in monitoring group activities after projectiii
termination. Collective efforts among village authorities, councilors and Members of
Parliament should be requested to help in soliciting funds for continuing implementing
projects activities after donor withdrawal.
