Perception Of Farmers Research Articles

Perception of smallholder farmers about climate change and its impacts on crop production across agroecological zones of the Gassera District, Southeastern Ethiopia

Perception of smallholder farmers about climate change and its impacts on crop production across agroecological zones of the Gassera District, Southeastern Ethiopia

Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Fish Aquaculture Revitalization, Multiplication and Sustainability in Nigeria

Thirty three mature broodfish of Common Carp were harvested from Panyam Fish Farm, Plateau State (PFFPS), and from Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi Research Fish Farm (FUAMRFF). These farms are situated in two different agro-ecological zones of Nigeria (with a fading history of Carp fish culture). The broodfish were fed for 90 days, in preparation for on-farm breeding activities with the aim of determining water quality, hatching parameters (through un-induced natural spawning, induced natural spawning and induced breeding by stripping in indoor concrete ponds); thirdly, to determine percentage survival of the bred Carp fish progenies cultured for 56 days (in ponds sampled in PFFPS and FUAMRFF). Fourthly, to evaluate growth and potential economic returns from the two areas, and finally to further evaluate fish farmers perception of Carp fish culture in selected fish farms across other agro-ecological zones in Nigeria. After breeding activities, progenies were cultured and fed to satiation. The water quality parameters in the ponds and in water holding tanks was monitored daily. At the end of the research period, PFFPS showed better Carp fish hatching tendency, highest (94%) in Induced Natural spawning), with better environmental condition and water physico-chemical parameters for Carp fish culture with mean Dissolved Oxygen content level (8.35 Mg/l), and pH (7.54). Furthermore, PFFPS has capacity to accommodate the mass production of Carp fish. Economically, PFFPS had a higher gross margin (402,250), and Profit index (5.0). Also, result from fish farmers perception on carp fish culture showed that 62% of farmers have no idea of Carp fish management, 66% have no idea of Carp fish selling price, 66% are aware of PFFPS and 100% expressed that more awareness should be created on aquaculture diversification (with interest in Carp fish aquaclture), as this will meet consumer demand and rescue this species from its current track of going extinct in Nigeria, if given urgent attention).

PRIMATE CROP RAIDING IN KAINJI LAKE NATIONAL PARK, NIGERIA: AN ANALYSIS OF VULNERABILITY INDICATORS AND FARMERS PERSPECTIVES FOR EFFECTIVE CONSERVATION

Human-primate conflict is a persistent challenge in conservation efforts. The study investigates vulnerability indicators of crop damage by primates and farmers attitudes towards conservation in Kanji Lake National Park, aiming to inform effective conflict mitigation strategies. Direct method and structured questionnaire were used to obtain information on crop damage severity, farmer perceptions and conservation attitudes. The Completely Randomised Design (CRD) was used in comparing vulnerability indicators that predisposed primates to conflict and the relationship between vulnerability indicators to crop damage intensity was determined using karl pearsons’ product moment coefficient of correlation. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square test analyses were adopted to reveal the opinions of respondents for significant differences on farmer’s attitudes and perceptions for effective conservation. The results show a significant correlation between crop damage and vulnerability indicators thus, highlighting the need for effective conflict mitigation strategies. The results revealed that the identified key vulnerability indicator, numbers of standing crops (0.015) differed significantly among the ranges of the park (P < 0.05). Nevertheless, farm sizes (0.068) were not significantly different among ranges (P > 0.05). Farm distance to park has positive correlation with farm size (r = 0.203) and number of standing crops (r = 0.310). Similarly, there were strong correlations between farm size and number of crops damaged (r = 0.680). In respect to conservation attitudes 74% of the respondents were in support of primate conservation, 38% wished that primates should be exterminated to stop crop damage and economic losses. 40% of the respondents supported the use of lethal methods for preventing primates from raiding crops while 53.1% were of the opinion that zone dwellers should be allowed to hunt. The findings highlighted the need for conservation efforts, emphasizing the importance of addressing human-primate conflict through collaborative approaches that consider both human livelihoods and wildlife conservation.

Farmer’s Perception and Determinant of Horticultural Crops in Nagaland and Manipur States

Background: The present research work was undertaken to known about the farmer perception and determinant as the adoption of the horticultural crops and major production constraints faced by them in Nagaland and Manipur states. Methods: For the present study by selecting 100 respondents each from Nagaland and Manipur states to have 200 respondents in total by using purposive stratified simple random sampling technique with the help of data collected through personnel interview methods during the Agricultural calendar year 2019 to 2022 (contain 3 years survey field data). Result: About the farmer perceptions for the horticultural crops in the study area viz; pineapple and chili both were selected due to the prominent crops; based on benefit-cost ratio pineapple crops of Nagaland was recorded as highest (3.31:1) returns, followed by pineapple crop of Manipur (3.01:1) state; also based on benefit-cost ratio, chili crop of Manipur was recorded highest (2.70:1) returns, followed by chili crop of Nagaland (2.76:1) state, respectively. About the perception level it increase by maximum 17.00 per cent for Dimapur Pineapple, followed by Thoubal Chili was 16 per cent, Kohima Chili was 12.00 per cent and minimum Senapati Pineapple was 10 per cent, respectively. About the major constraints faced by the respondents during the production, the foremost was due to the need for high investment in inputs, followed by the size of the land holding and lack of technical knowledge, respectively.

Integrating agricultural land suitability and farmers' perception on crop selection in a water-stressed region of eastern India

CONTEXTThe choice of crops for cultivation should be ideally based on the appropriateness of a specific parcel of land for a particular crop. This is a multi-criteria problem associated with a host of natural conditioning variables including topography, climate and pedology. However, in a country like India, where agriculture is often traditional and subsistence-based, the farmers' choice of crop selection is usually influenced by numerous factors and therefore, may not be explained solely by the spatial variation in the agricultural land suitability. OBJECTIVEThis study is an attempt to understand the intricacies involved in the farmers' selection of crops by integrating the dual aspects of agricultural land suitability and the farmers' understanding of the land. The Kumari River Basin in eastern India has been selected for this study. This area is characterized by acute scarcity of water. METHODSThe basic methodology involved extracting systematic information on conditional factors such as topography, climate and soil. After normalizing different parameters by the Fuzzy Membership Function, a reiterative Principal Component Analysis modified Analytical Hierarchy Process was applied to these conditional rasters to derive an index of agricultural land suitability of the studied basin. Furthermore, the crop-specific suitability of paddy and maize was also considered by employing the Boolean Logic. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONSIt is observed that the lower domain of the Kumari Basin is characterized by greater land suitability as compared to the upper and middle domains and the most important factors behind this distribution include slope, potential evapotranspiration and soil fertility. Crop-specific land suitability suggests that, by and large, the suitability of maize is greater than that of paddy in the basin, except for the lower domain where paddy is more suitable to cultivate. However, a study of the perception of the local farmers reveals that although they are aware of this fact, they prefer paddy over maize and are more inclined towards cultivating paddy. The chief reasons cited by them include the high demand for paddy in the area and the absence of a Minimum Support Price for maize. SIGNIFICANCEThis study is possibly an instance where the agricultural land suitability analysis has been substantiated by a field-based perception survey of the farmers which is expected to help in understanding the complexities of crop selection in this part of India.

Household Level Determinants of Wheat Packages Adoption in Tigray Region, Northern Ethiopia

Wheat has been considered as one of the strategic food security crops in Ethiopia. A number of research efforts have been done by different research institutions to improve the production and productivity of the crop and as a result a number of wheat production packages has been released and promoted all across the country, including Tigray. Yet, in Tigray, there is no adequate evidence on the adoption status of wheat packages and their determinant factors. Hence, this adoption study was initiated with the objective to analyze the status of wheat packages adoption, and determinant factors for further adoption. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select 493 households from five wheat growing districts of the region. Data were collected through the administration of semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed using both descriptive statistics and Multivariate Probit (MVP) model. The descriptive results described that, the average wheat packages adoption status was 67%, of these only 17% of farmers adopted all five packages. The result of MVP model revealed that sex, age, livestock size, extension services, average plot distance, off-farm income source, farmer perception on his status and credit access were the determinant factors which facilitate/and/or hinder wheat packages adoption in Tigray. Thus, the policy and development interventions should focus on improving institutional support and wealth creation opportunities to improve production and productivity of wheat producer farmers in Tigray.

A SURVEY REGARDING MANGO FRUIT BORER INFESTATION IN MANGO ORCHARDS OF PUNJAB PAKISTAN

Mango is an important tropical fruit crop grown in most parts of the world including India, Pakistan, China, Bangladesh, Burma, Thailand, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, Africa, Brazil, Mexico and some US states. Mangan o is an important fruit crop for Pakistan due to its delicious taste, rich in vitamins A and C-and high-income returns to mango growers. However, in recent years a new pest problem mango fruit borer extensively damaged mango fruit crop in all mango growing districts of Punjab and Sindh. This insect was previously not even recognized as an important pest of mangoes in Pakistan among farmers and the scientific community, however since 2017, very serious complaints have been received from mango orchard owners regarding damage caused by MFB in the fruit clusters. Hence a survey was conducted in four districts of Punjab Pakistan viz., Multan, Muzaffargarh, Khanewal, and Rahim Yar Khan. About 145 mango growers were randomly chosen for interviews to learn about farmer perceptions and management of mango fruit borer. A series of open-ended and closed-ended questions were asked. Data was analyzed through the Chi-square test using Statistix 8.1 software. Farmers were asked various questions regarding farmers' identification of MFB stages and the nature of the damage, varietal preference of MFB, resting or hibernating places of the pest, insecticides used to control the pest, weeds as the reservoir of the pest and many more. Overall, most of the farmers were primarily qualified, males and had orchard sizes of 2 to 10 acres. Farmers reported that Sindhri was mostly affected by variety. Farmers used insecticides to control the pest menace and achieved around 40-80 % control. The knowledge about species recognition was very low among farmers. Based on this survey, we recommend farmer training programs regarding pest management, enhancing awareness among farmers regarding pest attacks, pest scouting, pest recognition and incorporation of cultural control techniques along with insecticides as a necessary part of pest management should be explained.

TREND OF CASSAVA YIELD/PRODCUTION IN IN KOGI EAST SENATORIAL DISTRICT, KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined the trends in cassava yield and production in the Kogi East Senatorial District of Kogi State, Nigeria, focusing on the perceptions of local farmers regarding yield changes over the past five years and the factors influencing these trends. A total of 403 respondents were surveyed, revealing that 71.3% of the farmers perceived an increase in cassava yields, while 28.7% reported stable yields. The primary factors contributing to the perceived increase included the use of improved cassava varieties (58.1%) and climate variability (41.9%). Furthermore, the statistical analysis indicated a stationary R-squared value of 0.792, suggesting a robust model fit for predicting future production trends. Forecasts indicated a steady increase in cassava production per hectare from 2024 to 2033, with projected yields rising from 17.33 tons per hectare in 2024 to 18.54 tons per hectare by 2033. Despite these positive trends, the study identified significant challenges posed by climate variability, with 76.7% of respondents recognizing a high impact on production. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions, including the promotion of climate-resilient cassava varieties, improved access to quality planting materials, and the implementation of sustainable agricultural practices. Overall, this study provides critical insights into the cassava production landscape in Kogi East and highlights the importance of collaborative efforts among stakeholders to enhance productivity and ensure food security in the region.

Smallholder Farmers’ Perception of Land Conflict: A Case Study of Mara Chiefdom, Bombali District, Sierra Leone

This research aimed to assess the perceptions of smallholder farmers in Mara chiefdom, Bombali District, regarding land conflicts. It focused on investigating types, causes, impacts, and strategies for mitigating these conflicts. Quantitative and qualitative study was used, with 80 household head farmers from four communities and four (4) focus group Discussions. Data was collected through primary methods, including questionnaires and focus group discussions. Results from the research revealed that the prevailing types of land conflicts are family, individual, and land use conflict. Factors responsible for these conflicts are the weak nature of national and local policies, the increase in population, and gender biases in terms of allocation of land and settling of land disputes. Conflicts impact humans, the environment, and society, and dialogue has effectively addressed these conflicts. The study suggests the government should collaborate with landowners, raise land policy awareness, engage farmers, cattle rearers, Sun Bird Bio Energy Company, formerly Addax, and establish a local control mechanism. It also recommends community consent for land custodians to avoid misuse. Future research should involve a large-scale study for more reliable findings.

Assessing Organic Farming Adoption in Selected Districts of Tamil Nadu: Challenges, Practices, and Pathways for Growth

This study investigates the specific challenges and opportunities faced by organic farmers in Tamil Nadu, focusing on how region-specific practices influence the adoption and success of organic farming. It draws insights from a survey of 300 organic growers across five districts: Coimbatore, Dindigul, Erode, Tirupur, and Villupuram. This study is particularly relevant because there is a lack of comprehensive research on the specific challenges and opportunities faced by organic farmers in Tamil Nadu, with limited data on the long-term impact of government initiatives and region-specific management options, especially for smallholder farmers. Additionally, gaps exist in understanding the economic viability, market demand, and farmer perceptions of organic farming together with challenges like knowledge gaps, pest control, managing risks, and lower initial yields during the transition from conventional farming to organic farming. The research evaluated the factors affecting organic farming, including crop yield, the use of different organic formulations, the role of different information services, opportunities and challenges, and the impact on the perceived effectiveness of various agricultural outcomes. Various statistical analyses were performed, including K-means clustering, Poisson regression, and chi-square test. The results revealed significant variations in the adoption of various organic inputs and regionally practiced organic formulations. Crop residues (82.67%), Jeevamrith (78.33%), Amudhakaraisal (77.00%), and 3G-Extracts (74.00%) have high adoption rates, reflecting their perceived effectiveness and accessibility among farmers. However, the adoption of microbial bio-inputs such as Trichoderma viride (1.00%), Acetobacter spp. (19.00%), Azophos (consortium of phosphorus fixing microbes) (26.33%), and Azospirillum spp. (28.67%) was notably poor despite their known benefits for soil health and crop yield. The chi-square test also highlighted key challenges faced by farmers in adopting organic farming practices. The Poisson regression analysis showed significant positive impacts on crop growth and yield, disease resistance, insect control, overall plant health, and input efficiency due to organic farming. The study’s insights are essential for developing targeted strategies to overcome barriers, supporting the growth and sustainability of organic farming. Addressing these challenges and promoting effective information channels will better equip stakeholders to support organic growers, contributing to more resilient and productive agricultural systems in the region.

Farmers’ perceptions and awareness of cattle feedlots as a climate-smart approach to enteric methane emissions

The perceptions of farmers regarding communal feedlots and their role in reducing enteric methane emissions have received limited attention in research. This study aims to examine farmers’ perceptions, assess awareness, and identify barriers to adopting feedlots as a climate-smart practice to enteric methane emissions in rural communities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. 161 structured, paper-based questionnaires were distributed among smallholder cattle farmers around three feedlot locations. Most farmers had heard about feedlots (67.7 %); however, only a few (19.9 %) participated. The lack of knowledge about feedlot operations was the main factor influencing farmers’ participation in feedlots. Most farmers did not perceive feedlots as a climate-smart approach to reducing enteric methane output (53.8 %), with few sure (9.6 %) and others unsure (36.5 %). When asked about the reasons for their perceptions of feedlots as a climate-smart approach to mitigating methane, many farmers were unsure of the reasons (86.5 %), with the least believing it could be related to poor feed quality (1.9 %). The availability of financial resources and level of education were the key factors influencing farmers’ willingness to adopt feedlots as a climate-smart practice. These findings emphasise the importance of targeted educational workshops and support systems to enhance farmers’ awareness and promote the adoption of cattle feedlots as a climate-smart approach. The findings can also inform policy and practice to address perceived feedlot drawbacks, such as feed provision and technical assistance, and improve their successful implementation. However, further research is needed to explore farmers’ perceptions of cattle feedlots as a climate-smart practice.

Persepsi Petani terhadap Pengaruh Faktor Internal dalam Sistem Peremajaan Kelapa Sawit Model Tumbang Serempak Berkelanjutan di Kecamatan Muara Papalik Kabupaten Tanjung Jabung Barat

This research aims to determine the perception of oil palm farmers regarding the sustainable simultaneous fall rejuvenation system. Knowing and analyzing the rejuvenation system of the sustainable simultaneous fall model with the perceptions of oil palm farmers in Muara Papalik District, West Tanjung Jabung Regency. The research model uses observation, surveys, interviews and distributing questionnaires to farmers in Intan Jaya Village and Sungai Papauh Village from September to November 2023. The research instrument uses a Likert Scale as an indicator that can be measured. The close relationship between aspects that influence farmers' perceptions with the Spearman Rank Correlation test using the SPSS application. The research results show that the perception of the input aspect has a positive value of 83.78%; financial aspect 78.37%; market aspect 82.43%; technological aspects 78.38%; institutional aspect 79.72% and income aspect 82.44%. Meanwhile, the ecological aspect in implementing oil palm rejuvenation using a sustainable simultaneous fall model needs to be a sustainable socio-economic study. The perception-forming aspect has a strong relationship with the input aspect, financial aspect, market aspect, technological aspect and income aspect, while the institutional aspect is weak. Farmers' perceptions of the sustainable simultaneous fall rejuvenation model from six aspects have a close influence on oil palm rejuvenation.

Knowledge and perceptions towards organic farming: a case of pineapple farmers in central Uganda

This study examined the knowledge and perceptions as well as factors that influence the knowledge and perceptions of pineapple farmers towards organic farming in Uganda. Through multi-stage sampling procedures, purposive and random techniques were applied at different stages to select participants from both Luwero and Kayunga districts in central Uganda. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. A composite index for knowledge and perceptions was computed for each respondent and subjected to descriptive statistics while the censored Tobit regression model was used to determine factors that influenced farmers’ knowledge and perceptions of organic farming. Results showed that both organic and non-organic farmers had a high level of knowledge and favorable perceptions towards organic farming with no significant difference. Perceived environmental and economic benefits of organic farming did not significantly differ (p > 0.05) among organic and non-organic farmers. However, mean scores for perceived health and nutritional (4.30 vs. 3.94) benefits, and access to markets (4.10 vs. 3.89) differed significantly (p < 0.05) between organic and non-organic farmers. There was a positive and significant relationship between knowledge and perception of organic farming among non-organic farmers while for organic farmers, a significant and negative relationship was observed. Factors that significantly influenced farmers’ knowledge were information sources and farmers’ experiences. Farmer perceptions were influenced by education, information sources, group membership and extension services. Therefore, to enhance the adoption and growth of organic pineapple production in Uganda, policymakers and promoters should consider these factors when designing policy documents and sustainability strategies for the development of organic agriculture.

The adoption of Best Management Practices: empirical evidence from oil palm farming in rural Ghana

ABSTRACT Purpose We examine how farmer characteristics, farm, institutional, perception and shock factors influence the adoption of the Best Management Practices (BMPs). A thorough understanding of how relevant drivers affect the adoption decision of diverse BMPs can contribute to the development of evidence-based policies. Approach We use a household survey of 1031 smallholder oil palm farmers in the forest zones of Ghana to assess the determinants of farmers’ adoption decisions. We employ a seemingly unrelated regression (SUR) model after a principal component analysis is used to extract five latent components. Findings Our findings indicate that different farmer characteristics, farm, institutional, perception and shock factors have differential associations with the adoption of diverse BMPs. Key among these are the positive perception of BMPs, access to mills, perception of soil fertility and pests and diseases. Practical implications Specific BMPs must be tailored to meet the prevailing individual socio-economic characteristics and challenges of farmers to facilitate their adoption and scale-up. Educational programmes and dissemination of information by extension agents and research institutions are needed in the promotion of BMPs to enhance effective uptake. Theoretical implication The paper contributes to the growing literature especially on the uptake of diverse management practices, utilizing both behavioural and socio-economic theories underpinning adoption, thus providing empirical evidence that adoption is influenced by both behavioural and socio-economic factors. Originality/value In the bid to increase agricultural productivity, while preserving ecosystem services, the adoption of sustainable management practices remains key for all stakeholders and policy makers. This paper presents credible information for policy makers in Ghana and Africa in designing polices to influence their adoptions.

Knowledge, attitude, and perceptions of farmers in the Maranhão Amazon regarding the ecological importance of bees

Bees perform an essential pollination service on more than half of all plants worldwide. However, a global decline in bee and other pollinator populations due to anthropic activities threatens these services. Understanding the interactions between farmers and bees is essential for developing policies to protect pollinators. This study sought to investigate and document the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of farmers in the Maranhão Amazon in Brazil regarding the relevance and function of bees. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 567 farmers from 54 rural communities, located in six counties. The results showed that participating farmers understood the importance of bees, acknowledging the pollination of plants and honey production as their primary functions. Farmers also observed that bee populations have reduced over the years and cited anthropic actions (deforestation, slash-and-burn agriculture, and pesticide use) as the most impacting elements. Although farmers recognized the ecological functions of bees, none were willing to implement any novel practices on their properties to preserve bee populations. Our results identified a need to stimulate the implementation of activities that safeguard bees, for instance via projects that train local farmers and encourage them to contribute to bee preservation, implement sustainable agricultural practices, and reduce pesticide use. Such projects can assist farmers in the recovery and reforestation of degraded areas in the region.

Agroecological farmer perceptions and opinions towards pest management and biodiversity in the Argentine Pampa region

ABSTRACT Agroecology has recently become an alternative production model that tries to face the negative environmental and socioeconomic consequences of the agricultural model based on excessive agrochemical use and no-tillage practices. It searches for alternatives to pest management so as to increase yields while promoting biodiversity conservation. Our goal was to know the perception and opinion of agroecological farmers of the Pampa region on crop pests, the techniques they use for pest management and their perceptions on biodiversity. A survey was conducted which provided 103 responses. The main pest mentioned was ants. Of farmers surveyed, 64.71% claim that their main pest significantly reduces their yields, 79.42% claim that they monitor their crops for pests, although those with over 25 years of experience tend not to. Farmers have a mostly positive perception of biodiversity, particularly birds even though many identify pigeons and parrots as damaging. These results make it possible to describe the agroecological Pampa farmers and to show some common pest issues that need to be observed to benefit production in the area. The study highlights the importance of biodiversity for these farmers and their willingness to use tools that attract birds that could potentially manage pests.

Circumstantial factors and local collaboration determine farmers' perceptions and practices on circular bioeconomy – examples from Southern Sweden

Economic systems that rely on linear growth and non-renewable resources have enhanced environmental impact of agricultural practices at a global scale. The literature portrays an urgent need to align agricultural practices with economic pathways that utilize and regenerate biological resources more. Circular bioeconomy promotes means for the agri-food sector to close, narrow, and slow biological resource flows. As farmers have a pivotal role in facilitating a transition to circular bioeconomy, this study analyzes farmers' perceptions and practices related to circular bioeconomy. Based on 11 semi-structured interviews with Swedish farmers the study highlights the role of pea cultivation as a tangible means to facilitate circular bioeconomy within the agri-food sector. The empirical findings of the study depict how farmers facilitate circular bioeconomy by closing, slowing and narrowing biological flows through waste management practices, technological means, and regenerative practices. The overarching results show how circumstantial factors such as inflation, market demand and regulations influence farmers perceptions and practices on circular bioeconomy, and how local networks and collaboration can facilitate cascading use and valorization of waste and by-products.

Farmers Awareness and Perception of Drone Technology

The agricultural sector is increasingly leveraging technological advancements to enhance productivity and sustainability. Among these innovations, drone technology, a crucial component of precision agriculture, is gaining global recognition. This study explores the current awareness and perception of drone technology among farmers in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu, where agriculture continues to be a critical livelihood source. Using an ex-post facto research design, the study sampled 60 farmers from various regions within Coimbatore district, selected through a simple random sampling technique to assess their awareness and perception of drone technology. Data were collected through structured interviews and questionnaires, analyzed using statistical tools like frequency, percentage analysis and mean score is to understand response patterns. The findings reveal that awareness of drone technology is highest for its use in spraying agrochemicals (75 per cent), followed by pest and disease control (68 per cent) and irrigation management (66 per cent). Farmers expressed positive perceptions of the efficiency and precision that drones bring to farming operations, particularly in reducing labor and time spent on manual tasks. Drones were recognized for their potential to improve crop health monitoring, optimize resource use, and promote sustainability by minimizing chemical overuse. Nonetheless, logistical challenges such as the durability of drones in extreme weather conditions, connectivity issues in rural areas, and maintenance costs pose significant obstacles to widespread adoption. While government initiatives, including subsidies have begun to alleviate some financial burdens, there is a clear need for further support in terms of training, infrastructure, and policy enhancements. The study underscores the importance of integrating drones into the agricultural sector to ensure more sustainable and productive farming practices that can meet the growing global food demand.

On-Farm Grain Yield Stability and Farmer Perceptions on Pre-release Pearl Millet Lines in Zimbabwe

Farmer participation in on-farm research does not only accelerate information gathering but also results in adoption of new research products. Here, we report on-farm trials conducted across five districts of Matabeleland province in Zimbabwe to explicate grain yield stability and farmer perceptions on eight pre-release pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) lines. The results indicated that genotypic effects on grain yield were significant in both individual and across-site analysis of variance and that farmers prioritize earliness and grain yield as must-have traits in millet varieties. The five districts were grouped into two distinct environments, with four districts (i.e., Bulilima, Gwanda, Matopos and Tsholotsho) in one group (i.e., DGrp1) and Mangwe district forming the second group (DGrp2). Pearl millet pre-release lines PM1 (1.425 kg ha-1), PM9 (1.043 kg ha-1) and PM6 (761.8 kg ha-1) showed high yield, stability and were the most preferred by farmers. In conclusion, on-farm trials may offer the quickest possible solution to boost low-pearl millet production resulting from the continuous use of unproductive landraces and old varieties by farmers.

A multifaceted analysis of pesticide utilization in market gardening along the Ruzizi plain: Exploring factors, farmer perceptions &amp; media influence

Along the Ruzizi plain, subsistence agriculture constitutes households' primary food source. Regardless of the environment, the low level of pesticide use ensures less effective disease and pest control. This is why a study was carried out in the Ruzizi plain to identify the main determinants of pesticide use on vegetable crops for effective control of diseases and pests that significantly reduce the yield of these crops, which play an economically important role for producers and the role of the media in this context. The data was collected using a closed-type survey questionnaire on 90 market gardeners distributed equally between localities applying the probit model. The results of the probit model estimation reveal that about nine factors positively influence the use of pesticides: membership in a cooperative (p=0.0012), access to agricultural credit (p=0.0153), experience in agriculture (p=0.0008), experience in market gardening (p=0.0197), standard of living (p=0.0139), yield (p=0.0001), capacity building (p=0.0035), the area exploited (p=0.0011) and the cultivation system (p=0.0233). In addition, tomatoes are the leading vegetable crop grown by many market gardeners (61.1%), followed by amaranth (20%) and onions (18.9%). Also, 67.8% of market gardeners use pesticides compared to 32.2% who do not use them. Thus, considering these factors would contribute to decision-making when carrying out certain activities to improve market gardening, contributing considerably to the fight against food insecurity. Also, it is advised that the media work harder to inform rural residents and areas about the agenda for rural development.