Assessing Farmers Perception and Knowledge in the Management of Economically Important Insect Pests of Rice in Seirra Leone

Abstract

Pest infestation has been a major challenge and significant constraint to rice production in Sierra Leone, threatening food security and farmers livelihoods. Unfortunately, there is a limited study on farmers’ perception and knowledge on the identification and management of these pests. Therefore, this study assessed farmers’ perceptions and knowledge regarding the identification and management of economically important insect pests across three key rice producing districts (Kenema, Kambia and Moyamba). The study used a mixed methods approach, and data were collctedfrom 300 rice farmers through structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Statistical packages for social science and both descriptive and inferential statistics were performed. The findings revealed that middle aged farmers were the most dominant and played a critical role in rice production while there was limited engagement from the younger and older farmers posing serious concern about further production. The findings further revealed a widespread reliance on physical and traditional pest control methods such as manual removal and farm sanitation with limited adoption of integrated pests’ management(IPM) practices. Major pests identified included stem borers, rice ear bug leafhoppers and termites. Logistic regression analysis showed that IPM adoption was significantly influenced by farmers age, education level, and pest knowledge. Despite low awareness of IPM, most of the farmers expressed willingness to adopt the practice. Pest infestations resulted in substantial yiled losses across all districts with Kambia experiencing the highest reduction(1.2 t/ha). Key constraints to pest management include lack of capital, limited access to credit and insufficient extension support. This study therefore underscores the importance of education, training, and financial support in promoting IPM adoption and sustainable pest management.