This study examines the impact of agricultural extension services on farmers’ access to affordable agricultural inputs during economic shocks, evaluates the accessibility and effectiveness of extension services in supporting smallholder farmers amid economic disruptions, and analyzes constraints affecting extension performance in reducing the adverse effects of input inflation and unstable markets. Data were collected through structured surveys administered to a stratified random sample of 425 smallholder farmers. Sampling ensured representation across various agro-ecological zones vulnerable to economic shocks. Multiple linear regression with interaction terms revealed that extension services significantly improve access to affordable inputs (β = 0.45, p < 0.01), with stronger effects observed among farmers with higher education levels and credit access. Ordered logistic regression indicated that extension accessibility and perceived effectiveness positively influence farmers’ likelihood to adopt recommended practices during economic disruptions (OR = 1.68, p < 0.05), controlling for demographic and socio-economic factors. Factor analysis of 20 identified constraints extracted four key factors—Institutional and Staffing Constraints, Economic Constraints, Logistical Access Issues, and Policy/Input System Failures—with high loadings on variables such as lack of qualified staff (0.78), rising input prices (0.73), poor road infrastructure (0.76), and weak input supply chains (0.71). These findings highlight multifaceted barriers limiting extension service effectiveness during economic shocks. The study concludes that strengthening extension capacity, stabilizing input markets, improving rural infrastructure, and enhancing policy coordination are essential. Recommendations include investing in extension personnel, regulating input prices, expanding rural ICT and transport infrastructure, and fostering public-private partnerships to build resilience and ensure sustainabl