Bridging the Last-Mile Gap: A Critical Assessment of the Community Business Facilitator Model in Nepal’s Agricultural Extension Landscape

Abstract

Agricultural extension in Nepal faces challenges like limited outreach, insufficient technical personnel, and weak linkages between farmers, input suppliers, and markets. In response, development programs have introduced the Community Business Facilitator (CBF) model. The model is a market-oriented approach where selected local individuals are trained and supported to develop as entrepreneurs and facilitate extension services in their community. This qualitative study assesses the effectiveness, motivations, and operational constraints of the CBF model across selected districts of Nepal and suggests model improvements for sustainability. Data were collected through document review, field observations and key informant interviews with 16 CBFs and 4 project officers and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings indicate CBFs have a positive impact on farmer’s access to knowledge, services and adoption of new tools and technologies. Income opportunities, social recognition and skill enhancements were key drivers of CBF engagement. The model faced several structural, operational, and socio-economic constraints and few strategic recommendations have been suggested for its institutionalization.