Understanding the factors behind non-adherence to pesticide safety guidelines among smallholder farmers in Fogera and Mecha districts, northwestern Ethiopia

Statistical analyses indicated non-significant differences between districts regarding these practices, underscoring universal issues such as economic constraints, limited resource access, and inadequate awareness. Crops like maize, faba bean, and cabbage showed high pesticide usage rates in both districts without statistically significant differences, emphasizing their cumulative impact on food safety. This finding underscores the urgent need for comprehensive interventions. Measures such as subsidized PPE, infrastructure development for safe pesticide storage, enhanced educational campaigns, and strengthened regulatory frameworks are crucial to promote sustainable agricultural practices and mitigate health and environmental risks. In conclusion, the study identifies widespread barriers to effective pesticide management among smallholder farmers in Fogera and Mecha, including economic limitations and resource constraints. Addressing these challenges necessitates a multifaceted strategy that includes subsidized PPE, improved storage infrastructure, and intensified educational initiatives to foster sustainable practices and safeguard both human health and the environment.