Assessment of factors influencing farmers’ perceptions of desert locust control strategies in Kenya

The destructive nature of desert locust invasion in terms of reduced food security and loss of agricultural incomes necessitates effective control strategies. While there exist both formal and indigenous control methods, effective control requires the combined efforts of all stakeholders. The adoption of integrated control depends on farmers’ perceptions and acceptance of key control aspects. However, it remains unclear as to which factors influence farmers’ perceptions of desert locust control. This study assessed the effects of socio-economic and institutional factors on farmers’ perception of desert locust control. The study applied principal component analysis (PCA) to develop perception indices that were subsequently used in multiple regression analysis of data collected from a sample of 391 farmers in Isiolo and Meru Counties in Kenya. Descriptive results indicated that formal control (spraying) was effective though negatively affected both human and livestock health while indigenous control methods were effective only to a certain extent. The regression analysis results showed that years of formal schooling, group membership, access to extension services, awareness of desert locust information, land tenure ownership, number of shocks experienced, tarmac road distance, and location had significant effects on farmers' perceptions of desert locust control. The study recommends targeted training of pest management staff at the county level to improve early warning and institute mitigation measures to limit agricultural losses. The national and county governments should invest in infrastructural development and involve farmers as key stakeholders as these measures would improve farmers' participation in desert locust control programs.