Facing the challenge of an HIV/AIDS epidemic: agricultural extension services in sub-Saharan Africa

The role of agricultural extension services is to develop rural human resources with an aim to increase food production. However, the survival of the entire agricultural sector is threatened by the growing HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa. This FAO authored paper explores the links between the epidemic and the survival of the farming population in Sub-Saharan Africa. It argues that the prevention of HIV/AIDS is now a priority issue for cross-sector organisations, outlining a key role for agricultural extension services.

The article highlights the institutional, technical and operational challenges HIV/AIDS currently pose to the agricultural sector, such as the worsening supply of farm labour, threats to food security and increased poverty. Without immediate and collaborative intervention, the consequences could result in a major destabilisation of villages and food production. The cross-sector effects of the epidemic mean that agricultural services needs to work in conjunction with governments, organisations, local groups and villagers to increase awareness, improve education and to cope with the changing nature of farm work as a result of the change in the social fabric of communities. Key strategies are outlined in response to this epidemic, aimed specifically at extension staff but also including cross-sector collaboration and donor assistance. [adapted from author]