Impacts of Pesticide Use on Market Gardening Crops in Mokolo Municipality

The study aims to assess the impacts of the use of pesticides in market gardening on crops, human health and the environment in Mokolo, Far North Region of Cameroon. Pesticides use is a common practice to protect crops, driven by personal beliefs and challenges faced by farmers in the area. Although this practice improves yields, it has both positive and negative effects on farmers, crops and the environment. Data for this study was collected through questionnaires administered to 158 farmers and 15 officials from the locality, NGOs and other stakeholders. The questionnaires, structured to assess the impacts of pesticides on crops, the environment, the economy, and health were administered across 13 market gardening sites. Data collected were analyzed using Kobo Collect, Excel, and Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) for spatialization. The findings indicate that pesticide use has harmful consequences on farmers, crops health and environment. Pesticides residues on crops was very high as reported by 88.7% on parsley, 59% on celery, and 73.7% on peppers, cabbage, and onions). Health issues reported among farmers was also very high: 88% for respiratory cases and 72% for skin irritations. There was significant financial losses due to high costs of pesticide purchase (80,000 to 90,000 FCFA). The results reveals a gap in effective pesticides use. It also underscores an urgent need of regulations that promote integrated pest management as well as the use of sustainable alternatives (bio-pesticides) to preserve a healthy ecosystem and protect public health.