Adoption of sustainable pest management practices by horticultural farmers in Eritrea

Abstract

Pesticide misuse poses considerable health and environmental risks, particularly in regions with weak regulatory enforcement and limited institutional capacity. This study examines the adoption of sustainable pest management practices among 170 horticultural farmers in the moist highlands and arid lowlands of Eritrea, with a focus on the prevalence and type of synthetic pesticide use, adoption of safe handling and application practices, and non-chemical pest control measures. Most farmers reported using WHO Class II pesticides to control pests like aphids, caterpillars, mites, and others. Notable regional differences were found in the adoption of safe pesticide use practices, with low adopters of safe practices being more prevalent in Gala Nefhi than in Dighe. Extension services and training on pesticide safety emerged as the most consistent predictors of adoption levels. Non-chemical alternatives such as biopesticides (5.3%) and biological control (4.1%) were reported to be underutilized. Evidence-based strategies aimed at improving adoption of safe pesticide use practices, enhancing institutional outreach, and promoting low-risk pest control methods are necessary in support of Eritrea’s agricultural sustainability goals.