Purpose: To assess the performance of agricultural extension managers and the factors influencing it in the case study of Uganda. Design/methodology/approach: Secondary data was analysed using descriptive statistics and econometric models. Findings: The amount of extension grant received and the education of the extension manager positively influence extension managers` performance, whereas voter turnout has the opposite effect. Practical Implications: This study is important for understanding the institutional capacity to implement well-managed and effective public services, such as agricultural extension, which are significant for development. It presents a novel methodology for secondary data analysis, which could be applied to other fields and countries. Theoretical implications: This study expands the theoretical boundary for analysing performance in agricultural extension by illustrating the use of unique performance indicators that have not been widely applied. The study contributes an innovative method to conceptualise the determinants of extension managers` performance using secondary data. Originality/value: This is the first study to examine the performance of agricultural extension managers as the literature has thus far focused on agricultural field agents and organisations.