ABSTRACT
Literature reviews, surveys and case studies were undertaken for a work commissioned in 2015 by UN FAO, Rural Infrastructure and Agro-Industry Division in order to identify countries where extension/advisory services have embraced the challenging issues and problems found in the postharvest/agro-industry sector as a means of promoting food security and rural development (India, Chile, Thailand, the USA and the EU countries). Also included were countries that are newly involved in the postharvest sector (Tanzania, Ethiopia, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Cambodia, Indonesia) and countries showing interest in the concept but not yet making significant investments (several countries in the Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) Regions, Malawi, Nepal, Rwanda). The case studies illustrate the steps taken by four of the countries that have made significant progress in integrating postharvest/agro-industry into their national extension/advisory services (Ethiopia, Tanzania, Chile and India). These case studies highlight key considerations with respect to integrating smallholders, gender relations, and nutrition in any plans for enhanced extension/advisory services.
Based on common factors found in countries studied, guidance is provided via the Seven Steps Model with the following key objectives for more effective extension/advisory services:
