Integrated Pest Management Adoption, Pesticide Handling and Knowledge Gaps among Cotton Farmers in Tanzania: Implications for Human and Environmental Health

The global demand for cotton has risen significantly due to its extensive use in the textile and manufacturing industries, making it one of the most valuable cash crops worldwide. However, this growing demand for cotton production is severely threatened by the currently emerging pests which are intensified by the occurring of climate change and variability. As a result, many smallholder farmers have increasingly turned to chemical pesticides use to control the pests and maintain cotton production. But, while pesticides are effective in controlling pests and improving yields, their improper use and mismanagement pose serious risks to human health and the environment. This study was conducted to assess the extent of pesticide dependence among cotton farmers, their awareness of the health and environmental risks associated with pesticide use, and their rate of adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) as a safer alternative for controlling pests. Using embedded design, a one of the types of designs of mixed-methods approach, quantitative data were collected from structured interviews with heads of cotton-farming households, alongside qualitative data from in-depth interview with key informants and focus group discussions (FGDs). The findings revealed that 70% of farmers relied on chemical pesticides for pest control. Only 8% reported using IPM practices. Additionally, 86% and 80% of the respondents lacked knowledge of the potential environmental and health risks of pesticide use, respectively. Moreover, 91% and 75% of the respondents had not received any training on IPM and pesticide handling, respectively. The study concludes that the widespread lack of knowledge about the harmful effects of pesticides was largely due to inadequate training on pesticide use. Furthermore, the low adoption of IPM is linked to insufficient awareness and training. The study recommends implementing targeted training programs to promote safe pesticide use and increase awareness and adoption of IPM for improved human and environmental health.