Written by Humphrey Nxumalo, Head of Programmes (Southern Africa) at Solidaridad
The Growing Gap in Agricultural Support
The extension officer-to-farmer ratios across Southern Africa remain critically high, limiting farmers’ access to timely advice and technical support. A 2024 South African Journal of Agricultural Extension study indicates ratios are over 1:1,000 extension officer-to-farmers in South Africa and this is the case for most of the region.
Without reliable advisory services, farmers struggle to adopt climate-smart practices, improve productivity or access markets competitively. At the same time, limited mechanization keeps many farmers trapped in labour-intensive systems that reduce efficiency and profitability.
Strengthening Access to Inputs and Services
Addressing these challenges requires practical partnerships. Solidaridad, in Southern Africa, is working to improve access to quality cotton and soybean seed in both Malawi and Mozambique. These interventions are helping farmers access improved varieties that can strengthen productivity and resilience.
At the same time, Solidaridad is partnering with service providers and private sector actors to improve access to fertilizer, agrochemicals and other critical farming services. Sustainable agricultural transformation will depend on making these inputs more affordable and accessible for smallholder farmers.
Building Resilient Agricultural Systems
Food security in Southern Africa cannot be achieved without empowering smallholder farmers. Governments, development organizations and agribusinesses must work together to close the access gap. When farmers have affordable inputs, quality advisory support and appropriate mechanization, they are better positioned to improve yields, strengthen livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to regional economic growth.