IMPACT OF MARKET-LED AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION SERVICES (MLES) ON TOMATO PRODUCTIVITY AND INCOME OF SMALLSCALE FARMERS IN BUEA, SOUTH WEST REGION, CAMEROON

This study examines the influence of Market-led Agricultural Extension Services (MLES) on tomato productivity and income on Small-scale in Buea South West Region Cameroon. amidst persistent challenges faced by not only tomatoes farmers but the general agricultural sector. These challenges include; limited market access, post-harvest losses, low productivity and low profitability. Employing a descriptive survey design, data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with 28 tomato farmers and some extension agents. SPSS was the statistical instrument used for data analysis. With the use of descriptive statistics, the study reveals that while 60.7% of farmers have access to extension support, substantial gaps still exist in service availability and effectiveness. Key support services include training on tomato production and post-harvest handling but critical elements like market linkage and financial literacy remain largely unaddressed. Notably, 50% of farmers reported improved yields due to support from extension services, 34.3% achieved greater market access, with increase income attributed to the received extension services. Nevertheless, challenges such as high transportation costs and price fluctuations persist thus, limiting farmer overall success. The study concludes that MLES has potential to positively affect productivity and promote economic outcomes, but infrastructural and systemic barriers must be overcome for full benefits to be realized. The study therefore recommends that, expanding MLES coverage, enhancing infrastructure, utilizing digital tools for market information, and fostering cooperative farming initiatives can greatly boast the general economy for tomatoes farmers.