Abstract

The shift from public to private agricultural extension services is transforming farmers’ access to knowledge, technology, and advice. While privatization enhances efficiency and innovation, it raises serious gender equity concerns. Women, vital yet often overlooked in agriculture, face barriers in accessing information and resources. Market-driven models may marginalize them due to costs, mobility limits, digital gaps, and male-dominated structures. Yet, opportunities exist through digital inclusion, women-led models, and gender-responsive partnerships. This article explores global evidence and offers policy recommendations to ensure privatized extension systems advance, not hinder, gender equity in agriculture.