Pesticides Use among Banana Farmers in Sheema District and their impact on anurans

Abstract

Bananas (Musa spp.) are an indispensable pillar of global food security and economic growth, serving as both a staple food and cash crop. The vulnerability of the banana crop to pests and diseases necessitates the use of pesticides. This research sought to unravel the extent of pesticide use among banana farmers in Sheema district, Uganda and the environmental ramifications. A cross-sectional survey was carried out where 136 banana farmers were randomly selected from four Sub-Counties. Questionnaires were administered to gather information on the farmers' demographic characteristics and their pesticide use practices. In order to assess the effect of pesticide use (type, dosage and frequency of application) on anurans population, pesticide treated (pesticide-used) plots and control (pesticide-free) plots were compared. The capture-recapture method with pitfall traps was used. Results showed that 44.5% of the farmers were using pesticides with 49.2% using insecticides and 50.8% using herbicides. Dudu Guard constituted 58.06% of the insecticides being used and Force Up 45.2% of the herbicides. Most of the pesticides were classified under Class II and Class III. However, Carbofuran belonging to class 1b was also being used. Regression analysis revealed that gender, farm size, mixed farming, age, farming experience were the significant determinants of pesticide use (p-value < 0.05). Additionally, 78.7% of farmers understood pesticide labels, and 83.6% had received training on pesticide use. Majority (73.5%) stored pesticides in a store house while 82.4% burn empty containers after use. Farmers expressed a big concern for food safety (68.9% strongly agree) and soil contamination (54.1% strongly agree) due to pesticide use. Results further revealed that farmers under dosed Force Up, and Jembe 48SL, adhered to the recommended doses for Lava, Nimbecidine, Dudu Guard, and Imiforce. Dudu Cyper 5EC, Delforce, Carbofuran, Glufosun, and Weedmaster were overdosed. Farmers applied Rocket, Jembe 48SL, Glufosun, and Weedmaster at the recommended frequencies. Lava, Nimbecidine, Delforce, Imiforce, and Force Up were used less frequently than recommended. Dudu Cyper 5EC was applied correctly (66.67%) and Dudu Guard (94.12%) was used below recommended frequency. All farmers correctly used Carbofuran 1−5 times/year. The impact of pesticides on anurans, results showed that anuran populations were lower (p value < 0.05) in pesticide-treated plots (average of 18 anurans) as compared to control plots (average of 66 anurans). A chi-square test comparing anuran populations in control and pesticide-treated plots across four sub-counties revealed significant population reductions in Kasaana (p value < 0.001), Kabwohe (p value = 0.003), Kigarama (p value < 0.001) and Kashozi (p value = 0.02), highlighting the detrimental effects of pesticide use on anuran populations. In light of these findings, the study advocates for the promotion of safe pesticide practices through enhanced extension services, further training, and awareness programs. Encouragement of integrated pest management strategies and alternative methods should aim to reduce over-reliance on pesticides. Moreover, stringent and continuous monitoring and regulation of pesticide use are seen as vital measures to safeguard the environment and ensure sustainable agricultural practices.