Roots and Tubers Market Expansion and Inclusion through Marketing Extension Services: A Conceptual Framework

This study developed a conceptual framework for the expansion of markets and inclusion of farmers in the marketing processes through agricultural marketing extension services in Nigeria It identified the role of marketing extension services towards market expansion and inclusion of farmers, effects of marketing extension of market expansion and inclusion, of root and tuber crops farmers and developed a framework for market expansion and inclusion of root and tuber crops farmers through marketing extension. According to the framework, it is expected that when the intervention is properly implemented on the roots and tuber value chain actors there will be an intermediate outcome (increased market awareness, access to market reliable market information and increased market participation). The intermediate outcome will further lead to the final outcome which are demand driven production, easy and fast means of disposal, market access), expanded market, farmers inclusion, increased income, and increased food security. It is therefore concluded that agricultural extension is no longer confined to agricultural production alone but includes other task such as marketing of agricultural and rural products, consultants, advisors and facilitators of the farmer learning process. It is therefore recommended that government should develop, support and promote training in marketing skills and services for agricultural marketing extension workers. Key Words: Roots and Tubers; Market Expansion; Market Extension; Conceptual Framework DOI: 10.7176/JMCR/85-07 Publication date: May 28th 202