IPM technologies for stemborer control on maize in coastal kenya

Abstract

The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) is a research institution engaged in research on insect pests and vectors of human and livestock diseases. The Centre's Interactive Socioeconomic Research for Biointensive Pest Management Technology Development (ISERIPM) project, which has been implemented in Kwale and Kilift districts of Kenya, covers research work on maize, sorghum, cowpea and cassava, which are important food crops in Coast Province. Farmers and frontline extension staff of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock Development and Marketing (MOALDM) and staff of KARl have been actively involved in the ISERIPM project's research activities as collaborating partners. The project has two main aims which are to: (1) test IPM technologies which have been developed in western Kenya with a view to ensuring their adaptability to local coastal conditions; and (2) develop methodologies of working with farmers, MOALDM's extension staff, and KARl researchers that can facilitate adoption of IPM technologies and enhance food production on a sustainable basis. This brochure is a reference source for use primarily by extension staff who are responsible for the demonstration of the IPM technologies to farmers. Most of the information that is presented in this Guide has not only been discussed with farmers and extension staff, but has also been applied by farmers in the research areas during a number of seasons. Indeed, farmers have played an important role in all phases by evaluating the various components of the IPM technology and selecting the options they prefer. For example, out of the original ten maize cultivars and twenty sorghum cultivars tested, two maize and two sorghum cultivars have been selected with the participation of farmers. In the final phases of the project, the farmers were the key players since they managed all the activities of the trials according to the options they selected. The primary role of the researchers in these phases was to monitor the technology adoption process and to observe and evaluate the modifications being made by farmers.