Assessment of information dissemination channels for the adoption of integrated pest management among large-scale farmers in Uasin Gishu, Kenya

Abstract

Integrated pest management (IPM) is a long-term management practice involving cultural, biological, and physical methods. Chemical control is only applied where other techniques are ineffective and pesticides that only kill the target organisms are selected to minimize environmental pollution. This paper examines the different IPM practices adopted and information dissemination channels for the adoption of these practices among large-scale farmers in Soy sub-county. The study surveyed a total of 155 large-scale farmers from 13 locations in Soy sub-county. The study employed a survey research design and collected data through household questionnaires and a focus group discussion schedule with the farmers association. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze data where tables, graphs, and pie charts were used in presenting the quantitative data. Data from the focus group discussion schedule was analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The findings showed that natural IPM methods adopted were cultural, physical, and biological practices. The chemical methods adopted were herbicides, insecticides, and fertilizers. The respondents obtained information on IPM practices through farmer-to-farmer training, field exhibitions, farmer field days, television, radio, and extension officers. As a result, there was inadequate information on complex practices of natural IPM practices as they required proper training hence the main dependence on chemical control methods due to their quick and guaranteed results in crop yields. The pesticides used were glyphosates, carbamates, and organophosphates which are mainly non-selective, highly toxic, and carcinogenic some of which are counterfeit products contributing to environmental pollution, animal, and human health risks.