Purpose: Accelerating the adoption of intensification methods is critical for improving African agricultural productivity growth. This study synthesizes the effect of determinants underlying the speed of adoption of agricultural intensification methods in Africa. Design/Methodology/Approach: A systematic literature search was conducted using online databases, covering 20 years of publication research. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. Findings: After controlling for innovation type, a subgroup analysis reveals that gender and formal education influence the speed of adoption of improved staple crop varieties and other agricultural intensification methods. Practical implications: Continued investment in approaches that are gender sympathetic and in agricultural education and extension is implied. Theoretical implications: Accelerating agricultural productivity growth requires a broad understanding of the potential determinants. This extends beyond farmer characteristics and includes factors that describe the context of agricultural systems, policies, and technology. Originality/Value: This is the first study quantifying the effect size of factors that influence the pace of adoption of agricultural intensification methods in Africa.