The document summarizes a project that introduced a question and answer service voucher system (QAS-VS) in Uganda to strengthen the country's underfunded and underperforming rural advisory services. Through the QAS-VS, 900 small-scale farmers received timely answers to questions from experts. It generated an online knowledge base and increased outreach through radio broadcasts. A survey found the QAS-VS increased farmers' productivity, engagement with best practices, and use of research outputs. The conclusions recommend expanding the approach and increasing government support to improve evidence-based extension services.

1. Contributing to Extension – The Question and Answer Service Voucher System Patrick Kasangaki Rural Empowerment Network – (REN)

2. Authors Vivienne Oguya [email_address] and Patrick Kasangaki [email_address]

3. Presentation Layout Introduction Project Objective Project Outreach Materials, Methods, Data Sources Outputs Impact Conclusions and Recommendations

13. The QAS-VS…… Farmer request Field agent Rural Information Broker (Internet) www.isicad.org/cta Expert response Library Internet Payment after delivery ! Answer service

17. Outputs Increased outreach - 72 radio programmes broadcasted. 744 recordings distributed to listening groups at 15 sites

19. Impact…. Effect on Productivity by enterprise Increase in Productivity (%) < 0 0-25 26-50 51-75 76-99 100 > 100 TOTAL Crop Production 5 15 20 65 25 17 3 150 Animal Production 2 9 8 37 8 15 6 85 Aquaculture 0 1 1 4 2 0 0 8

20. Impact…. Increased Engagement by Thematic Scope (%) Thematic Scope < 0 0-25 26-50 51-75 76-99 100 > 100 TOTAL Marketing 5 15 60 22 30 15 3 150 Post Harvest Processing 4 10 63 13 34 12 14 150 Pest Control 3 20 57 32 17 16 5 150

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