Pesticide use among smallholder rice farmers in Tanzania
Loading...
Date
2010
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Springer Science
Abstract
Abstract In an interview study conducted among smallholder rice farmers in Rufiji,
Tanzania coastal mainland, and in Cheju, Zanzibar, farmer’s pesticide use and risk
awareness were assessed. The farmers generally lacked knowledge or possibilities to
manage the pesticides as prescribed by the manufacturers. Few farmers knew what kind of
pesticides they were using and had never seen the original packages, as pesticides were
usually sold per weight or already diluted without labeling. Protective equipment was
rarely used since they were not aware of risks associated with pesticides or did not know
where to purchase protective gear. Only half of the farmers were aware of pesticides’
health hazards and few associated pesticides with environmental problems. The pesticide
use was relatively low, but based on farmers’ pesticide handling and application practices,
health risks were a major concern. Most farmers did not believe in successful rice cultivation
without using pesticides to control pests. However, estimated yields did not differ
between pesticide users or farmers using conventional methods or neem tree extract. To
avoid negative effects on human health and the environment, the farmers need basic
education and better assistance in their farming practices and pesticide management
Description
Keywords
Human health, Risk awareness, Zanzibar, Rufiji
Citation
Stadlinger, N., Mmochi, A.J., Dobo, S., Gyllbäck, E. and Kumblad, L., 2011. Pesticide use among smallholder rice farmers in Tanzania. Environment, Development and Sustainability, 13(3), pp.641-656.