In a world where nearly one in three people suffer from some form of malnutrition, a groundbreaking systematic review published in *AgroEnvironmental Sustainability* (which translates to *Sustainable Agricultural Environment*) is shedding light on how agricultural extension services (AES) can be a game-changer in tackling global nutritional challenges. Led by Kenneth K. Orjinta from the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics at Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Nigeria, the research synthesizes evidence from 42 studies conducted between 2015 and 2025, offering a comprehensive look at how nutrition-sensitive agriculture (NSA) interventions can improve dietary diversity, micronutrient status, and food security in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
The global nutrition crisis is a complex issue, encompassing undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and obesity-related non-communicable diseases. Traditional agricultural extension services, which have primarily focused on boosting productivity, are now being recognized for their potential to deliver NSA interventions that address these pressing health concerns. “Agricultural extension services are no longer just about increasing crop yields,” Orjinta explains. “They are increasingly pivotal in delivering nutrition-sensitive interventions that can transform lives and improve health outcomes.”
The review highlights several key strategies that have proven effective in improving nutritional outcomes. Nutrition education, biofortification, gender-sensitive approaches, digital innovations, and policy coherence are among the most impactful interventions. For instance, Rwanda’s Home Garden Program and India’s Nutrition Gardens have demonstrated the transformative potential of AES when integrated with multisectoral approaches. Uganda’s biofortification efforts also stand out as a successful case study, showcasing how targeted interventions can make a significant difference.
However, the journey is not without its challenges. Resource scarcity, cultural resistance, and fragmented policies continue to hinder progress. Additionally, there are research gaps in understanding the longitudinal impacts of these interventions and the dynamics between urban and rural areas. “While the potential is immense, we must address these challenges to fully realize the benefits of nutrition-sensitive agriculture,” Orjinta notes.
To move forward, the review recommends capacity building, technological scaling, and policy alignment to embed AES within national nutrition frameworks. These steps are crucial for advancing Sustainable Development Goal 2, which aims to achieve zero hunger. By leveraging AES, we can develop scalable strategies that nourish populations sustainably, ultimately shaping a healthier and more resilient future.
This research not only underscores the critical role of agricultural extension services in the agriculture-nutrition nexus but also offers a roadmap for future developments in the field. As we strive to create a world free from hunger and malnutrition, the insights from this systematic review will be invaluable in guiding policy makers, practitioners, and researchers toward more effective and sustainable solutions.