Determinants of Integrated Pest Management Adoption Among Large-Scale Farmers in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

Agriculture plays a crucial factor in socio-economic growth and development in many developing countries as it is the main source of livelihood for many people across the world. However, several agricultural activities contribute to negative environmental impacts as they involve indiscriminate application of synthetic pesticides. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an environmentally safe and effective approach which helps in managing crop pests and diseases and protection of micro-organisms and beneficial insects. This paper examines the different determinants influencing the adoption of IPM practices. The study employed a research survey design where a total of 155 large-scale farmers were surveyed within the sub-county. The data was collected through household questionnaires and face-to-face interviews with the extension officers. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize data through tables and graphs. Qualitative data from face-to-face interviews with agricultural and extension officers from the Ministry of Agriculture was analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The findings showed that Education level, age, main occupation, household income, farmer field day participation, machinery ownership, farm size, and pest and weed resurgence were the main determinants for IPM adoption among the respondents