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The effectiveness of agricultural extension work is highly depends on effectiveness of its staff specially Development Agents. Development Agents need to be qualified, motivated, committed and responsive to the ever-changing social, economical and political environment. More over, they are expected to be motivated for the reason that they work under complex and fluid circumstances with little supervision. Therefore, it is vital to understand factors that influence the work motivation of Development Agents. By identifying factors influencing work motivation of Development Agents, the study could provide good ground for possible change in the agricultural extension service for current and newly employed Development Agents. In addition, it helps officers and policy makers to develop strategies that sustain a highly motivated spear-head, frontline work force. Furthermore, the study will broaden managers and supervisors insights regarding factors influencing work motivation of the Development Agents and enable them to discharge their responsibility of leadership appropriately.

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The author is a lecturer in Arba Minch University. He has extensive experience in Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development being development agent, SMS, woreda office head and executive committee in SNNPR. He has obtained his BSc and MSc from Haramaya University. He has Diploma of capable manager from Open University of UK.

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