Control of stem borers and striga in African cereals: a low input push-pull approach with rapidly expanding impact

Abstract

A system which comprises intercropping between rows of maize with plants that repel stem borers and attract natural enemies, and which also dramatically reduce the level of striga infestation, combined with a surrounding crop of plants that trap out pests, has been developed for use by resource-poor farmers in sub-Saharan Africa.The intercrop and trap crops provide forage for cattle and goats. The technology is called “push-pull”. It is knowledge-intensive and there are lessons to be learned in its dissemination to resource-poor farming communities. However, where these have been practised, the take-up and continued use is very high. There are alternative technologies for stem borer and striga control, but these are not compatible with subsistence farming economics, are not sustainable in the long term and could lead to increased acreages for the farms involved, with subsequent displacement of rural communities. The push-pull technology raises the farming level above subsistence by improving cereal yields and by providing animal forage, and the evidence also suggests that it does so whilst stabilising a high density rural population.