Publication

This paper explores the roles of extension services in supporting the livelihoods of the poor in Nicaragua. It reviews options in the context of policy frameworks and their impact on the social, political and economic contexts in which extensions operate. The author relates the policy environment to micro-level dynamics of change in public sector extension agencies and other institutional actors. He provides insights into policies and programs to address issues of poverty and discusses how incentive structures have influenced field-level institutions to change relationships with the poor.