Assessing the Role of Rural Youths in Agricultural Production; A Challenge to Agricultural Extension Services in Noni Sub Division, NW Region of Cameroon

Abstract

This study assessed the role of rural youths in agricultural production and the associated challenges for agricultural extension services in Noni Sub Division, North West Region of Cameroon. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions and field observations involving youth farmers, with 120 youths selected and 115 questionnaires reported as suitable for analysis. Quantitative responses were summarised using percentages and tables, while qualitative information was organised thematically. The findings showed that 52.5% of respondents were male, 52.5% were aged 20–30 years and 60.8% were married. Youth participation was highest in crop farming (69.1%), followed by farm labour (35.8%). Perceptions of agriculture were mixed: 29.1% regarded farming as an activity for school dropouts, whereas 62.5% considered it a very high income-generating activity. The main constraints to participation were lack of government incentives (79.16%), limited market access (68.3%) and inadequate training and extension services (62.5%). The study indicates that strengthening youth-oriented extension support, improving access to relevant agricultural innovations and providing practical training may encourage wider participation in agricultural activities. The findings also emphasise the importance of local infrastructure and stronger rural–urban linkages in supporting agricultural livelihoods and employment opportunities for rural youths. These results provide locally grounded evidence on the extension-service challenges affecting youth participation in Noni Sub Division.