TEAM is based on a farmer-to-farmer type extension methodology that has proved successful within and outside the Southern African region, and has been modified to adopt a livelihoods approach. The approach was to increase the knowledge and practices of rural farmers, including their decision-making and problem-solving abilities. The extension method is based on experiential learning and is practised in 210 villages through farmer extension facilitators (FEFs) in each village. The participants are mainly interested crop and vegetable farmers who attend the module facilitation sessions run by TEAM and the FEFs.

FEFs are elected by the village/community according to certain criteria. FEFs are trained by TEAM as trainers in the technical modules involving appropriate technologies relating to soil nutrition and preparation and integrated pest management. FEFs then carry out experiential learning trainings (module facilitation) in the designated villages with fellow farmers. The module facilitation is designed to improve villagers' ability to solve problems, manage resources, demand services and articulate needs.

Elements of the FEF and TEAM approach have now been adopted in the Ministry of Agriculture's new policy on Unified Extension.