Integrated Pest Management

Farmers training at Kolunji farm

This activity is conducted through using mechanical and biological methods as well as informing the beneficiaries about the hazards of applying chemical pesticides and insecticides. Kudumbam applies a holistic approach that addresses the various aspects of pests. Some of the mechanical methods farmers are encouraged to use include: manual weed collection to use for compost, summer ploughing, attracting bats and birds to eat insects, and the practice of planting sticky traps to attract insects away from the main crop. Biological methods used during the activity include seed treatment with bio-input liquids, mixed cropping for attracting predators that can eat pests, and planting crops (maize, cow-pea, sunflower) that pests can eat instead of the main crop. Training sessions are organized at local agricultural fields with around 20 farmers to show how integrated pest management is implemented practically and gain the technical knowledge. The beneficiaries of the program are not only the farmers but also the consumer and local communities. Also, farmers who are not involved in the activity will benefit when a neighbouring farmer applies these pest methods because of an increase in predators for example. A Farmers Field Day is organized by Kudumbam in villages with farmers, researchers and other NGOs to share the experience of the activity to others. Kudumbam has worked with this activity since 1995 and onwards. The activity has achieved reduction of cost for cultivating, improved crop quality, increased soil moisture, better bio diversity and enhanced yields.