In the heart of Kenya’s agricultural landscape, a quiet revolution is taking root, one that promises to reshape the way farmers interact with pesticides and, in turn, transform the agricultural sector’s environmental and health footprint. The Ukulima True campaign, a Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) initiative, has emerged as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of targeted communication in fostering safer farming practices.
Maureen W. Njenga, a researcher at the Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI) in Nairobi, Kenya, led a study published in *Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems* (which translates to *Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems*) that evaluated the campaign’s impact. The findings are nothing short of inspiring. “We found that the campaign significantly increased awareness and adoption of safe pesticide practices,” Njenga explains. “This is a game-changer for the agricultural sector, where pesticide misuse has long been a critical issue.”
The study, conducted in Subukia Sub-County, involved surveys with 406 farmers and 12 Key Informant Interviews. It revealed that 68% of farmers became aware of the campaign, with peer-to-peer learning and radio emerging as the most influential communication channels. The campaign’s impact was profound: 86.4% of farmers adopted at least three Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices, and 85.7% regularly monitored their fields for pests and diseases. Awareness of approved pesticides rose to 70%, and adherence to Pre-harvest Intervals (PHI) increased to 86.4%.
One of the most notable outcomes was the increased use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during pesticide application and the uptake of Spray Service Providers (SSPs), which reduced farmers’ direct exposure to pesticides. “The campaign has not only improved safety but also enhanced productivity,” notes Njenga. “Farmers are now more conscious of the pesticides they use and how they apply them, leading to better crop yields and reduced environmental impact.”
The commercial implications for the agricultural sector are substantial. Safer pesticide use translates to healthier crops, reduced health costs for farmers, and a more sustainable environment. As the agricultural sector grapples with the challenges of climate change and increasing consumer demand for sustainable practices, initiatives like Ukulima True offer a blueprint for change.
Looking ahead, the study underscores the potential of SBCC in driving behavioral change. “Integrating SBCC with policy support and multi-stakeholder collaboration is crucial for sustainable pesticide risk reduction,” Njenga emphasizes. This approach could be replicated in other regions, fostering a global shift towards safer and more sustainable agricultural practices.
The Ukulima True campaign serves as a powerful reminder that change is possible, and it often starts with a simple conversation. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, the lessons learned from this initiative will undoubtedly shape future developments, paving the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.