Caister, Karen Fern.Jubisa, Ziyanda.2026-06-302026-06-3020252025https://hdl.handle.net/10413/24483Master's Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.Post-apartheid agricultural policy in South Africa focuses public support on small-scale farmers relying on agriculture. Government programmes aim to improve crop productivity, strengthen farming practices, expand market access and enhance food security, with extension officers positioned as key intermediaries linking research institutions and farmers. This study examines how such state-supported initiatives influence the livelihoods of small-scale farmers participating in four programmes—the Siyazondla Programme, the Comprehensive Agricultural Support Programme, the Cropping Programme and Livestock Improvement. The research was conducted in rural villages of Raymond Mhlaba Municipality in the Amathole District, Eastern Cape. Fieldwork took place between August and October 2024. Using a qualitative research design, the study engaged 16 purposively selected programme beneficiaries identified through DALRRD Extension and Advisory Services. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews, exploring farmers’ experiences of programme participation and extension support. Findings indicate a frustrating mismatch between farmers’ expectations of extension services and the actual delivery of support. Programme participation was often hindered by complex administrative processes, limited provision of tailored technical advice, and unreliable access to inputs. Irregular visits and inadequate follow-up by extension officers contributed to a diminished trust, as expressed through perceptions of neglect, favouritism, and inequitable resource allocation. In response, some farmers bypassed formal structures, relying instead on themselves, informal information networks and non-governmental support. The study concludes that, although extension services remain vital for strengthening rural smallholder agriculture, their impact is constrained by systemic delivery and equity gaps. More inclusive, consistent and participatory extension practices are required to advance sustainable agricultural development in the Eastern Cape. Strengthening extension staff capacity and ensuring accountability in resource allocation are recommended to improve the relevance, responsiveness and fairness of support to small-scale farmers.enExtension officers.Agricultural development programmes.Small-scale farmers.Livelihoods.Poverty alleviation.Thesis