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Abstract
This paper summarizes the findings from FSRP/DSA surveys designed to identify some of
the key institutional issues surrounding the role of farmer associations in the delivery of, and
access to agricultural services. Specifically, the surveys focus on the capacity of four
actors–MINAGRI Regional and District Agents, NGOs, District Governments (the Mayors) and farmer
associations and intergroupements to provide farmers with agricultural services that might help
in the transition from semi-subsistence to commercial agriculture. As this synthesis paper
indicates, some of these services have been provided on an irregular basis for many years
through a variety of government, NGO, donor agency and private business efforts. Moreover,
this paper highlights the strengths and weaknesses of these four key actors; it also identifies
areas for improvement, and recommends ways for enhancing the efficiency and equity of services
available to farmers through farmer associations.