Assessment of biopesticide adoption in vegetable production among smallholder farmers in Zimbabwe

Abstract

The increasing application of chemical pesticides in vegetable production among Zimbabwean smallholder farmers has raised concerns about environmental degradation, pesticide hazards, and pesticide resistance. Despite the availability of biopesticides as an adequate substitute, their adoption is characterized by low adoption levels. This study estimated the determinants of adoption of biopesticides among Zimbabwean smallholder vegetable farmers. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 250 farmers who were randomly chosen through stratified random sampling in Mashonaland East and Manicaland provinces. Structured questionnaires were used to gather information, which was analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results showed that only 32% of farmers used biopesticides due to inadequate awareness (65%), unaffordable prices (48%), and inadequate extension support (56%). Regression analysis showed that access to training (OR = 3.2, p < .01), market incentives (OR = 2.5, p < .05), and the level of education of farmers (OR = 1.8, p < .05) significantly influenced adoption. Conclusively, limited farmer knowledge, financial constraints, and ineffective institutional support remain the primary barriers to wider adoption of biopesticides. We recommend to reinforce farmer education programs, support subsidies for biopesticides, and upgrade extension services to promote sustainable pest management.