Influence of Farmer Production Goals on Cowpea Pest ManAgement in Eastern Uganda: Implications for Developing IPM Programmes

African Crop Science Journal, Vol. 7. No. 4, pp. 539-548, 1999 Influence of Farmer Production Goals on Cowpea Pest ManAgement in Eastern Uganda: Implications for Developing IPM Programmes Code Number: CS99045 ABSTRACT: We investigated using a case study the influence of differing production goals on cowpea production and pest management practices. The cases (farmers) were characterised as commercial, dual purpose and subsistence depending on the primary goal of production. Production goal influenced cowpea acreage, varietal choice, seasonal planting, perception of problematic pests, and stage and frequency of pesticide application. Farmers preferred to use pesticides, as the primary method of pest control, because they insured a marketable crop, were associated with yield increases, permitted two season cropping, and reduced demand for labour at labour peaks during the cropping season. Pesticides were used by the majority of farmers in the area. The only limitations to pesticide use were local availability and cost. Besides the use of pesticides farmers had local knowledge on alternative methods for controlling pests such as early planting, variety choice, weeding, leaf picking and intercropping. Generally, farmers were unknowledgeable (or uniformed) about cowpea diseases. Future research should seek to introduce resistant varieties; investigate efficacy, timing and rate of pesticide application; and, educate farmers regarding proper pesticide use and safety. KEYWORDS: Pesticides, resistant varieties, Vigna unguiculata Copyright 1999, African Crop Science Societ