Burundi faces major agricultural constraints, including land fragmentation, soil erosion, limited access to inputs, inadequate infrastructure and demographic pressures that exacerbate food insecurity. In order to addr...Burundi faces major agricultural constraints, including land fragmentation, soil erosion, limited access to inputs, inadequate infrastructure and demographic pressures that exacerbate food insecurity. In order to address the multiple challenges faced by farmers in rural areas, a study on improving agricultural productivity and food security in Burundi through optimized land use and diversified farming practices in agroforestry systems has been carried out. The study area is the communes of Giheta and Rutegama, all located in Burundi’s humid plateau livelihood zone, and involved 164 households grouped in coffee growing cooperatives supervised by the cooperative consortium COCOCA. The study uses a mathematical programming model to determine optimal crop selection based on factors such as production costs, yields and market demand. The findings of the study revealed significant insights into the demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the sampled population. Notably, 98.8% of respondents were engaged in agriculture, confirming the predominantly agricultural nature of Burundi. The results indicated that maize is the most important crop, occupying 33.9% of the average total cultivated area, followed by cassava at 26.5% and bananas at 19.4%. Together, these three crops accounted for a substantial portion of the total cultivated area, highlighting their significance in local agriculture. Beans and potatoes also play a role, occupying 14.4% and smaller areas, respectively. In terms of profitability, the study provides a detailed analysis of profit margins by crop. Bananas emerges as the most profitable crop, with a profit margin of 97.3%, followed closely by cassava at 96.1% and rice at 90.5%. These crops not only offered substantial yields relative to their production costs but also benefited from strong market demand. Other crops, such as beans (71.3%), coffee (70.3%), and vegetables (54.5%), also demonstrated considerable profitability, although they occupied smaller cultivated areas. Conversely, crops like pigeon peas (4.1%), potatoes (7.6%), and sweet potatoes (7.6%) exhibited the lowest profit margins, which may discourage farmers from investing in them unless other incentives, such as ecological benefits or local consumption needs, are present. Regarding the results, we therefore recommend to promote policies supporting agroforestry, improve market access and develop infrastructure to exploit these benefits.展开更多
This study examines the socio-economic profile of livestock farmers in coastal Côte d’Ivoire. A total of 43 people were interviewed using well-structured questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using de...This study examines the socio-economic profile of livestock farmers in coastal Côte d’Ivoire. A total of 43 people were interviewed using well-structured questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive methods. The results showed that local Lagoon breeders are divided into two zones: southwest and southeast. Breeders in the south-western region are generally located in two sub-prefectures of the Tabou Department (Grabo and Oulodio). Tabou’s department alone accounts for 42% of the Lagoon breed in Côte d’Ivoire. Agriculture in this area is traditionally sedentary, practiced for social reasons. On the other hand, the south-eastern zone, located in the departments of Aboisso, Adzopé, Agboville, Grand-Lahou, Jacqueville, Abidjan, Dabou and Sikensi, represents 58% of the Lagoon breeding area in Côte d’Ivoire. This second group is characterised by improved breeding. Most of the farmers interviewed in this zone breed for economic reasons. However, the risk of cross-breeding, which already affects the local Lagoon breed, could be increased by the presence of other species such as the Zebu and Ndamas, or even the Baoulé, in this south-eastern herd.展开更多
This study was designed to determine factors that influence market performance of avocado fruits among smallholder farmers in Mbeya and Songwe regions. A cross section research design entailing 209 farmers from five (...This study was designed to determine factors that influence market performance of avocado fruits among smallholder farmers in Mbeya and Songwe regions. A cross section research design entailing 209 farmers from five (5) districts of two (2) regions and 15 key informants;5 local service providers (LSP), 5 traders/brokers and 5 district extension officers (DEO) were involved in the study. Random selection procedures were used to select avocado producers and purposive selection procedures were used to select key informants. The study employed survey questionnaires to collect data from avocado farmers and structured interview to collect data from key informants. Collected data were analyzed with an aid of descriptive statistics and linear regression model was used to determine significant factors that determine market prices of avocado fruits among smallholder farmers. The demographic characteristics of avocado farmers showed that;61.2% of farmers had age between 36 to 59 years old, 84.7% were married, 74.6% had primary education level, average number of 5 members of the family, average 4.3 acres of owned land and 1.8 acres planted with avocado. Moreover, findings showed that 90.9% grew improved avocado varieties. Farm gate (88.5%) was the major market outlet chosen by avocado farmers. Local merchants and processors were the major buyers of the produced avocado. Results from linear regression analysis showed that variety grown (P P P P < 0.05) were factors that statistically influenced market prices for avocado fruits. The study concluded that despite the remarkable contributions to livelihood of the farmers yet, it is highly fragile on market prices. Therefore, the study recommends the need to establish market systems that will govern avocado fruits marketing for sustainability of the sub-sector.展开更多
Based on micro-survey data from 894 farmers in Sichuan Province,this study employs the Ordinary Least Squares(OLS),Two-Stage Least Squares(2SLS),mediating effect,and moderating effect models to comprehensively analyze...Based on micro-survey data from 894 farmers in Sichuan Province,this study employs the Ordinary Least Squares(OLS),Two-Stage Least Squares(2SLS),mediating effect,and moderating effect models to comprehensively analyze the mechanisms and effects of digital literacy in empowering farmers’common prosperity.Endogeneity and robustness are addressed using the Sobel test,the Bootstrap,and moderating effect plots.The findings indicate that first,after controlling for variables such as age,gender,and planting years,digital literacy significantly and positively influences the common prosperity of farmers at the 5%level;second,enhanced digital literacy promotes higher levels of technology adoption and information accumulation among farmers,thereby increasing the probability of achieving common prosperity.The mediating effects of technology adoption and information sharing account for 21.10%and 33.94%of the total effect,respectively;and third,the information environment and financial empowerment play positive moderation roles in the effect of digital literacy on farmers’common prosperity,with the moderation effects significant at the 1%and 10%levels,respectively.Therefore,we recommend policies that enhance the access of farmers to digital literacy training,strengthen rural digital infrastructure,establish integrated rural information-sharing platforms,and create an enabling environment for the adoption of digital technologies.展开更多
As China enters a new stage of agricultural modernization,understanding how rural e-commerce can address the multidimensional relative poverty of farmers is of significant research importance.This research utilized da...As China enters a new stage of agricultural modernization,understanding how rural e-commerce can address the multidimensional relative poverty of farmers is of significant research importance.This research utilized data from China Household Finance Survey(CHFS)and China Statistical Yearbook to construct a multi-dimensional relative poverty index system and an evaluation index system for rural e-commerce development.A fixed-effect model was employed to test the direct impact,and an intermediary-effect model was used to analyze the mechanism.The study found that rural e-commerce effectively alleviated multidimensional relative poverty among farmers,with varying effects across different dimensions.Notably,improving digital payment levels and non-agricultural employment were effective means by which rural e-commerce mitigated this poverty.However,the impact of rural e-commerce showed regional heterogeneity.Based on these findings,this research offered a series of countermeasures and suggestions.展开更多
Continuously broadening the channels for farmers’income growth and effectively narrowing the urban-rural income gap is the central task in the new development stage to comprehensively promote rural revitalization and...Continuously broadening the channels for farmers’income growth and effectively narrowing the urban-rural income gap is the central task in the new development stage to comprehensively promote rural revitalization and achieve the common prosperity of farmers and rural areas.The promotion of rural e-commerce and the enhancement of farmers’digital skills provide potential for this endeavor.Taking Zhejiang province,a demonstration area for common prosperity,as the research object,this study collected 1,119 valid questionnaires through field surveys.Based on the reconstruction of a comprehensive evaluation index for farmers’digital skills using principal component analysis,this paper further investigates the relationship between the level of farmers’digital skills and their income by employing the CRITIC weighting method,mediating mechanism testing,and grouped regression analysis.The research finds that improving digital skills can significantly enhance farmers’income levels,with the income growth effect being more pronounced among older groups with lower educational levels and limited digital skills.Digital skills not only directly promote farmers’income growth but also indirectly further enhance their income level by increasing their use of rural e-commerce,and thus the use of rural e-commerce serves as a significant mediating variable in the relationship between digital skills and farmers’income growth.These conclusions remain valid after a series of robustness tests,including endogeneity tests,the replacement of weight designs for digital skills,and the exclusion of outlier samples.Finally,the paper proposes policy recommendations such as offering more digital skills and e-commerce training,encouraging the return of new rural elites to promote regional clusters of rural e-commerce,and providing targeted policy support for the development of rural e-commerce.展开更多
Agricultural insurance plays a key role in promoting the coordinated development of green agriculture and farmers’income growth,which is crucial for China’s high-quality agricultural development.Using the coupling c...Agricultural insurance plays a key role in promoting the coordinated development of green agriculture and farmers’income growth,which is crucial for China’s high-quality agricultural development.Using the coupling coordination degree model,this study empirically demonstrates that the development of agricultural insurance significantly promotes the coordinated development of green agriculture and farmers’income growth once a certain threshold is exceeded.This effect is more pronounced in the major grain-producing regions and the central provinces.Expanding the scale of agricultural production and increasing investment in agricultural technology are the key mechanisms through which agricultural insurance supports the dual goals of green agriculture and income growth in China.In conclusion,this study proposes several policy recommendations,which include increasing investment in agricultural insurance infrastructure,strengthening the policy guidance for agricultural insurance,and designing differentiated agricultural insurance policies.展开更多
The development of digital villages and the expansion of farmers’consumption are important measures for expanding domestic demand and enhancing rural productive forces.Based on provincial panel data from China spanni...The development of digital villages and the expansion of farmers’consumption are important measures for expanding domestic demand and enhancing rural productive forces.Based on provincial panel data from China spanning 2010 to 2022,this paper establishes an evaluation indicator system for the development of digital villages,and empirically examines the impact of the development of digital villages on farmers’consumption growth,as well as its mechanisms,and spatial spillover effects.The results indicate that digital village development significantly promotes growth in the consumption of farmers,with the effects being more pronounced in the central and western regions.Mechanism analysis reveals that digital village development has a significant income-increasing effect and it improves the convenience of payments,both of which serve as important channels for promoting farmers’consumption growth.Further analysis demonstrates the significant spatial spillover effects of digital village development on farmers’consumption growth.Specifically,farmers’consumption growth is not only directly influenced by local digital village development and the demonstration effect of consumption growth in neighboring regions,but it is also indirectly influenced by the digital village development of nearby areas.Therefore,the promotion of digital village development,tailored to local conditions,the broadening of channels for increasing farmers’income,the strengthening of digital inclusive finance,and the rational leveraging of the spatial spillover effects of digital village development can further unleash the potential of farmers’consumption.展开更多
In the information age,the movement of livelihood factors between urban and rural areas,particularly involving farmers in rural tourism destinations,has stimulated the spatial revitalization and functional renewal of ...In the information age,the movement of livelihood factors between urban and rural areas,particularly involving farmers in rural tourism destinations,has stimulated the spatial revitalization and functional renewal of these destinations,thereby facilitating the advancement of rural revitalization.The examination of livelihood strategy selection among farmers in rural tourist destinations during the information age is a critical scientific inquiry for the sustainable development of rural tourism.This research holds substantial significance for enhancing the livelihood capabilities of farmers and contributing to the revitalization of rural industries.This study utilizes Xijiang Miao Village as a case study to conduct an in-depth analysis of farmers’livelihood strategy selection through the application of the entropy evaluation method and the binary logistic regression model.The findings indicate that the robust development of rural tourism has led to significant alterations in the original composition of livelihood capital in tourist destinations.Currently,four distinct types of livelihoods have been identified:agricultural-based,migrantwork-oriented,tourism-specialized,and tourism-supplemented.Due to the uneven distribution of livelihood capital,the predominant livelihood modes for farmers in rural tourism destinations remain the agricultural-based and tourism-supplemented types.Human capital and economic capital are the primary factors influencing the strategic choices made by farmers.In this context,a livelihood selection strategy for farmers in rural tourist destinations,specifically in Xijiang Miao Village,is proposed,taking into account the background of rural informatization.展开更多
To reduce poverty and promote sustainable development in rural areas,it is crucial to explore the impact of labor mobility on the sustainable livelihoods in mountainous regions.Here,based on a questionnaire survey of ...To reduce poverty and promote sustainable development in rural areas,it is crucial to explore the impact of labor mobility on the sustainable livelihoods in mountainous regions.Here,based on a questionnaire survey of farmers and in-depth interview data in the area of the Qinling-Daba Mountains of China in 2021,we analyzed the characteristics of labor mobility,with livelihood capital as the entry point,discussed the impact of labor mobility on farmers’sustainable livelihood using propensity score matching(PSM).The res-ults showed that labor mobility was common in the Qinling-Daba Mountains area,with some form of labor mobility in 61.97%of households.The majority of households had only male mobility,and labor mobility tended to be small in scale,low in frequency,yet permanent and over long distances.Labor mobility had a significantly positive impact on farmers in mountainous regions,increasing the livelihood sustainability of rural households by 7.83%.However,the impact of labor mobility on different livelihood capital was differ-ent,which had the greatest improvement on financial capital,followed by social capital,although it weakened natural capital to some extent.Except for high-frequency mobility,the comprehensive impact of other types of labor mobility was positive.Among them,medi-um-scale mobility,seasonal mobility,inter-provincial mobility,and low-frequency mobility had more pronounced positive effects on farmers’sustainable livelihoods.Our study provided a reference to guide policy on rural migration,with the aim of providing support for the sustainable development of mountainous villages.展开更多
Small-scale farming accounts for 78% of total agricultural production in Kenya and contributes to 23.5% of the country’s GDP. Their crop production activities are mostly rainfed subsistence with any surplus being sol...Small-scale farming accounts for 78% of total agricultural production in Kenya and contributes to 23.5% of the country’s GDP. Their crop production activities are mostly rainfed subsistence with any surplus being sold to bring in some income. Timely decisions on farm practices such as farm preparation and planting are critical determinants of the seasonal outcomes. In Kenya, most small-scale farmers have no reliable source of information that would help them make timely and accurate decisions. County governments have extension officers who are mandated with giving farmers advisory services to farmers but they are not able to reach most farmers due to facilitation constraints. The mode and format of sharing information is also critical since it’s important to ensure that it’s timely, well-understood and usable. This study sought to assess access to geospatial derived and other crop production information by farmers in four selected counties of Kenya. Specific objectives were to determine the profile of small-scale farmers in terms of age, education and farm size;to determine the type of information that is made available to them by County and Sub-County extension officers including the format and mode of provision;and to determine if the information provided was useful in terms of accuracy, timeliness and adequacy. The results indicated that over 80% of the farmers were over 35 years of age and over 56% were male. Majority had attained primary education (34%) or secondary education (29%) and most farmers in all the counties grew maize (71%). Notably, fellow farmers were a source of information (71%) with the frequency of sharing information being mostly seasonal (37%) and when information was available (43%). Over 66% of interviewed farmers indicating that they faced challenges while using provided information. The results from the study are insightful and helpful in determining effective ways of providing farmers with useful information to ensure maximum benefits.展开更多
Identifying the factors influencing farmers’adoption of low-carbon technologies(FA)and understanding their impacts are essential for shaping effective agricultural policies amied at emission reduction and carbon sequ...Identifying the factors influencing farmers’adoption of low-carbon technologies(FA)and understanding their impacts are essential for shaping effective agricultural policies amied at emission reduction and carbon sequestration in China.This study employs a meta-analysis of 122 empirical studies,delves into 23 driving factors affecting FA and addresses the inconsistencies present in the existing literature.We systematically examine the effect size,source of heterogeneity,and time-accumulation effect of the driving factors on FA.We find that significant heterogeneity in the factors influencing FA,except for farming experience,sources of heterogeneity from the survey zone,methodology model,technological attributes,report source,financial support,and the sampling year.Additionally,age,farming experience,and adoption cost negatively correlate with FA.In contrast,educational level,health status,technical training,economic and welfare cognition,land contract,soil quality,terrain,information accessibility,demonstration,government promotion,government regulation,government support,agricultural cooperatives member,peer effect,and agricultural income ratio demonstrate a positive correlation.Especially,demonstration and age show a particularly strong correlation.Finally,the effect of demonstration,age,economic and welfare cognition,farming experience,land contract,soil quality,information accessibility,government promotion,and support,as well as agricultural cooperative membership and peer effects on FA,are generally stable but exhibit varying degrees of attenuation over time.The effect of village cadre,family income,farm scale,gender,health status,technical training,and off-farm work on FA show notable temporal shifts and maintain a weak correlation with FA.This study contributes to shaping China’s current low-carbon agriculture policies across various regions.It encourages policymakers to comprehensively consider the stability of key factors,other potential factors,technological attributes,rural socio-economic context,and their interrelations.展开更多
Smallholder farmers in Ahafo Ano North District,Ghana,face multiple climatic and non-climatic issues.This study assessed the factors contributing to the livelihood vulnerability of smallholder farmers in this district...Smallholder farmers in Ahafo Ano North District,Ghana,face multiple climatic and non-climatic issues.This study assessed the factors contributing to the livelihood vulnerability of smallholder farmers in this district by household surveys with 200 respondents and focus group discussions(FGDs)with 10 respondents.The Mann–Kendall trend test was used to assess mean annual rainfall and temperature trends from 2002 to 2022.The relative importance index(RII)value was used to rank the climatic and non-climatic factors perceived by respondents.The socioeconomic characteristics affecting smallholder farmers’perceptions of climatic and non-climatic factors were evaluated by the binary logistic regression model.Results showed that mean annual rainfall decreased(P>0.05)but mean annual temperature significantly increased(P<0.05)from 2002 to 2022 in the district.The key climatic factors perceived by smallholder farmers were extreme heat or increasing temperature(RII=0.498),erratic rainfall(RII=0.485),and increased windstorms(RII=0.475).The critical non-climatic factors were high cost of farm inputs(RII=0.485),high cost of healthcare(RII=0.435),and poor condition of roads to farms(RII=0.415).Smallholder farmers’perceptions of climatic and non-climatic factors were significantly affected by their socioeconomic characteristics(P<0.05).This study concluded that these factors negatively impact the livelihoods and well-being of smallholder farmers and socioeconomic characteristics influence their perceptions of these factors.Therefore,to enhance the resilience of smallholder farmers to climate change,it is necessary to adopt a comprehensive and context-specific approach that accounts for climatic and non-climatic factors.展开更多
The goal of village governance is to improve the well-being of farmers,so this study aims to measure the impact the quality of village governance on the well-being of farmers.It also examines the heterogeneity of this...The goal of village governance is to improve the well-being of farmers,so this study aims to measure the impact the quality of village governance on the well-being of farmers.It also examines the heterogeneity of this impact across different farmer groups from the perspectives of income levels and occupational differentiation.To this end,this study developed an indicator system based on survey data collected from 1,442 farmers in the Sichuan,Shaanxi,and Gansu provinces,as well as the Ningxia Hui autonomous region.Multiple linear regression models were then used to analyze this data,and the findings revealed that improvements in the quality of village governance significantly increased the well-being of farmers.Specifically,primary-level empowerment and capacity building were shown to contribute the most to the enhancement of the farmers’well-being,followed by social inclusion,and social cohesion was found to have only a minimal effect.In terms of income levels,improving the quality of village governance benefited middle-income farmers the most,followed by low-income farmers,and it had the least effect on high-income farmers.In terms of occupations,full-time farmers gained the most from improvements in the quality of village governance,followed by off-farm farmers,with part-time farmers benefiting the least.Based on these findings,this study suggests that policymakers should improve the quality of village governance to enhance the well-being of farmers,focusing on the impact that level of income and occupational differentiation have on village governance.展开更多
Introduction: Pesticides are currently an essential component of agricultural production techniques for controlling pests and weeds. In Burkina Faso, non-compliance with good practice in the use of pesticides poses a ...Introduction: Pesticides are currently an essential component of agricultural production techniques for controlling pests and weeds. In Burkina Faso, non-compliance with good practice in the use of pesticides poses a real health problem for the population. This study examines the health risks associated with pesticide management in rice-growing areas. Material and Methods: A field survey was conducted in Bama, involving farmers, focusing on their socio-demographic characteristics, pesticide usage, and health effects. Cholinesterase levels were measured in subsample of farmers using a portable device. Data were analysed using Microsoft Excel, calculating means and percentages for various practices. Health consultations, protection methods, and pesticide management were studied. Erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase activity was compared before and after treatment. Data were categorised into classes based on inhibition levels, and correlation analyses determined relationships between variables such as age, years of experience, and cholinesterase activity. Results: The results indicate that rice cultivation is mainly carried out by a fairly young population, with nearly 63% being under the age of 50. Common poor practices in pesticide use include improper storage and reuse of leftover pesticides. Seven types of pesticides were identified, including organophosphates such as glyphosate, which was used in 26.7% of cases. This organophosphate has resulted in class B poisoning, causing a 30% - 50% reduction in erythrocyte cholinesterase activity. The health effects of pesticide use are felt by agricultural farmers through various symptoms of poisoning. Conclusion: To reduce the occurrence of pesticide poisoning, it is essential to launch information and awareness campaigns among the population and farmers to promote safe practices in pesticide use in Bama, Burkina Faso.展开更多
In order to explore the impact of changes in rural livelihoods in China on the environmental awareness and behavior of farmers,with the Huaibei Plain as an example,309 farmer households in Lingbi County in Huaibei Pla...In order to explore the impact of changes in rural livelihoods in China on the environmental awareness and behavior of farmers,with the Huaibei Plain as an example,309 farmer households in Lingbi County in Huaibei Plain were surveyed.The variance analysis was used to determine the differences in environmental perceptions and pro-environmental behavior of farmers with different livelihoods.Structural equation models were used to analyze the relationships between livelihood type and environmental perception and behavior.The results show:(1)As the level of non-agricultural activities engaged in by farmers increases,their environmental perceptions shift,evidenced by a rise in both the Environmental Concern Index(ECI)and the Awareness of Pollution Hazards Index(APHI).However,there is a corresponding decrease in their Perception of Changes within the Agroecosystem(PCAE).(2)APHI caused by automobiles,pesticides,and fertilizers varies significantly among groups with different livelihood strategies(p<0.05).(3)Pro-environmental behavior(PEB),particularly in the realms of green consumption and waste management,correlates with the level of non-agriculturalization.Significant variations in these behaviors are observed among farmers with different livelihood strategies(p<0.05).(4)The livelihood strategies have significant direct impact on farmers’environmental perceptions(path coefficient 0.923 p<0.001)and a significant indirect impact on farmers’PEB(path coefficient 0.913 p<0.001).Thus,as farmers shift away from agriculture,their environmental perceptions and behaviors are changing.Diversifying livelihoods reduces dependence on natural resources and increases access to environmental knowledge.This diversification fosters greater awareness of environmental issues and a willingness of farmers to adopt environmentally friendly practices,positively impacting rural environment.Thus,by promoting diversified livelihoods,it is possible to create a powerful strategy for rural environmental governance.展开更多
When contributing to participatory research, farmers usually appreciate the performance of cowpea varieties using qualitative scores. The score they attribute to each variety are based on local knowledge. The specific...When contributing to participatory research, farmers usually appreciate the performance of cowpea varieties using qualitative scores. The score they attribute to each variety are based on local knowledge. The specific criteria they individually use to attribute a score are not well described. The objectives of this work were to: 1) identify and describe exhaustively the local criteria used by farmers to measure the agronomic performance of cowpea;2) assess the variability and statistical structure of these farmer criteria across local contexts;3) and analyze the association between these farmer criteria and the classical agronomic measurement. To achieve these objectives, an augmented block design was implemented across fifteen locations in the regions of Maradi, Dosso and Tillabéri, representing a diversity of local contexts. From a set of 36 cowpea varieties, fifteen varieties were sown per location, including five varieties (controls) common to all locations. In each location, two replicates were sown in randomized Fisher’s blocks. After agronomic measurement and participatory evaluation (scoring of varieties by farmers), a group survey (focus group) was conducted in each location to identify the criteria considered by farmers to found their discretional scoring of varieties during the participatory evaluation. The analysis of the data identified, across locations, thirteen criteria defined by farmers to characterize the agronomic performance of cowpea. Some of these criteria were different according to location. Farmers ranked the three varieties with the best performance for each agronomical trait (Top 3 varieties). A comparison of the farmer ranking with the ranking based on agronomic measurements revealed similarity and complementary between both methods. This study highlighted the importance of considering both local and scientific knowledge in local varietal evaluations.展开更多
This research delves into the hurdles and strategies aimed at augmenting the market involvement of smallholder carrot farmers in Nakuru County, Kenya. Employing a Multinomial Logit (MNL) model, it scrutinizes the fact...This research delves into the hurdles and strategies aimed at augmenting the market involvement of smallholder carrot farmers in Nakuru County, Kenya. Employing a Multinomial Logit (MNL) model, it scrutinizes the factors influencing the selection of marketing outlets among carrot farmers. The findings unveil that a significant majority (81%) of surveyed farmers actively participate in diverse market outlets, encompassing the farm gate, cleaning point, local market, external market, and export market. Notably, pivotal buyers include aggregators, brokers, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers, with transactions predominantly occurring at the farm level. Additionally, the analysis discerns substantial influences of socio-economic characteristics, experiential factors, and geographical proximity on farmers’ choices of market outlets. Specifically, gender, age, land size, farming experience, and distance to markets emerge as critical determinants. Moreover, the study delves into the examination of market margins along the carrot value chain, shedding light on the potential profitability of carrot farming in the region. Remarkably, higher average gross margins are identified in export and external markets, signaling lucrative prospects for farmers targeting these segments. However, disparities in profit distribution between farmers and traders underscore the necessity for interventions to ensure equitable value distribution throughout the value chain. These findings underscore the imperative for tailored interventions to tackle challenges and foster inclusive agricultural development. Strategies such as farmer organizations, contracting, and vertical integration are advocated to enhance market access and profitability for smallholder carrot farmers. Thus, this study enriches our comprehension of the dynamics within carrot value chains and provides valuable insights for policymakers and development practitioners aiming to uplift rural livelihoods and bolster food security.展开更多
The cattle production in Romeas Haek district,Svay Rieng province,was developed remarkably,since there were some households raising cattle in large number,more than 20 heads.The grazing method of cattle was tethering ...The cattle production in Romeas Haek district,Svay Rieng province,was developed remarkably,since there were some households raising cattle in large number,more than 20 heads.The grazing method of cattle was tethering and free grassing in the commune grass,since the natural grass and rice straw were the main source of cattle feed,however some of them supplemented their cattle with crop-byproducts,planting grass or concentrated feed.For the majority,BCS(Body Condition Scoring)of the cattle in those areas was 3 accounting for 52%-73.33%,but it was found the thin cattle has low BCS of 2 accounting for 11.11%to 40.00%and also fat cattle has BCS of 4 up to 27.78%.However,the average BCS varied with village which ranged from 2.68 to 3.17,but is not different in term of commune and sex of cattle.Besides facing with shortage of feed,the experience with diseases was also another concern,since 85.71%to 95.83%of the households faced this problem last year.Among the clinical signs found,lumpy skin was 100%,i.e.no one escaped from this problem,thus making them aware of vaccinating their cattle against some diseases such as FMD(Foot and Mouth Disease),HS(Hemorrhagic Septicemia)and LSD(Lumpy Skin Disease),but mostly vaccination was used against FMD.Because the LSD has occurred in these areas since 2020,then the seroprevalence was found in high positive up to 72.62%by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay(ELISA)test.This positive rate was also varying by villages,ranging from 53.3%to 94.44%.But there was no association between positive cattle with commune,BCS,sex and age of cattle.In conclusion,the cattle production in Romeas Haek district,Svay Rieng province had developed markedly,however the shortage of feed and disease occurrence are the main challenges for farmer cattle producers,especially LSD outbreak last year.However,most of the farmers have been aware of the benefit of vaccination and had vaccinated their cattle against those main disease,such as FMD,HS and LSD.展开更多
Agriculture is one of the priority sectors in Timor-Leste. Introducing new agriculture technology is crucial to enhance agricultural production. Practicing cattle fattening can increase beef cattle body weight and gen...Agriculture is one of the priority sectors in Timor-Leste. Introducing new agriculture technology is crucial to enhance agricultural production. Practicing cattle fattening can increase beef cattle body weight and generate income to the beef cattle farmers. As farmers face problems including agricultural production decline, lack of forages and information and weather unfavourable. The study’s purpose was to examine the impact of adoption of cattle fattening technology on farmer households in Atabae administrative post, Bobonaro municipality in Timor-Leste. There were 200 beef cattle farmers households where randomly selected in four villages in Atabae. It consisted of 65 farmers practicing cattle fattening and 135 farmers non-practicing cattle fattening. Face to face interviews used structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis such as t-test and descriptive analysis were used to examine impact adoption of cattle fattening technology by farmers and factor constraints of cattle production and the solutions of it. The results indicated the average value of cattle and profit were significant different from zero and it is associated with practicing of cattle fattening. The average of labour used on cattle activities, the average of cattle sold, and total cost spent on cattle were not significant different from zero. The percentage of farmers said that factors constraints cattle production were shortage of water and forage (53%) and spend time on culture ceremony and lack of capital (33%). The number of farmers said that they collected water from river, feed cattle with sago and forage (55.3%) and cultivated forage (23.4%). This finding contributes information to the farmers, traders, and Timorese government to continue implementing cattle fattening activities as it enhances farmers’ income and developing cattle production.展开更多
文摘Burundi faces major agricultural constraints, including land fragmentation, soil erosion, limited access to inputs, inadequate infrastructure and demographic pressures that exacerbate food insecurity. In order to address the multiple challenges faced by farmers in rural areas, a study on improving agricultural productivity and food security in Burundi through optimized land use and diversified farming practices in agroforestry systems has been carried out. The study area is the communes of Giheta and Rutegama, all located in Burundi’s humid plateau livelihood zone, and involved 164 households grouped in coffee growing cooperatives supervised by the cooperative consortium COCOCA. The study uses a mathematical programming model to determine optimal crop selection based on factors such as production costs, yields and market demand. The findings of the study revealed significant insights into the demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the sampled population. Notably, 98.8% of respondents were engaged in agriculture, confirming the predominantly agricultural nature of Burundi. The results indicated that maize is the most important crop, occupying 33.9% of the average total cultivated area, followed by cassava at 26.5% and bananas at 19.4%. Together, these three crops accounted for a substantial portion of the total cultivated area, highlighting their significance in local agriculture. Beans and potatoes also play a role, occupying 14.4% and smaller areas, respectively. In terms of profitability, the study provides a detailed analysis of profit margins by crop. Bananas emerges as the most profitable crop, with a profit margin of 97.3%, followed closely by cassava at 96.1% and rice at 90.5%. These crops not only offered substantial yields relative to their production costs but also benefited from strong market demand. Other crops, such as beans (71.3%), coffee (70.3%), and vegetables (54.5%), also demonstrated considerable profitability, although they occupied smaller cultivated areas. Conversely, crops like pigeon peas (4.1%), potatoes (7.6%), and sweet potatoes (7.6%) exhibited the lowest profit margins, which may discourage farmers from investing in them unless other incentives, such as ecological benefits or local consumption needs, are present. Regarding the results, we therefore recommend to promote policies supporting agroforestry, improve market access and develop infrastructure to exploit these benefits.
文摘This study examines the socio-economic profile of livestock farmers in coastal Côte d’Ivoire. A total of 43 people were interviewed using well-structured questionnaires. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive methods. The results showed that local Lagoon breeders are divided into two zones: southwest and southeast. Breeders in the south-western region are generally located in two sub-prefectures of the Tabou Department (Grabo and Oulodio). Tabou’s department alone accounts for 42% of the Lagoon breed in Côte d’Ivoire. Agriculture in this area is traditionally sedentary, practiced for social reasons. On the other hand, the south-eastern zone, located in the departments of Aboisso, Adzopé, Agboville, Grand-Lahou, Jacqueville, Abidjan, Dabou and Sikensi, represents 58% of the Lagoon breeding area in Côte d’Ivoire. This second group is characterised by improved breeding. Most of the farmers interviewed in this zone breed for economic reasons. However, the risk of cross-breeding, which already affects the local Lagoon breed, could be increased by the presence of other species such as the Zebu and Ndamas, or even the Baoulé, in this south-eastern herd.
文摘This study was designed to determine factors that influence market performance of avocado fruits among smallholder farmers in Mbeya and Songwe regions. A cross section research design entailing 209 farmers from five (5) districts of two (2) regions and 15 key informants;5 local service providers (LSP), 5 traders/brokers and 5 district extension officers (DEO) were involved in the study. Random selection procedures were used to select avocado producers and purposive selection procedures were used to select key informants. The study employed survey questionnaires to collect data from avocado farmers and structured interview to collect data from key informants. Collected data were analyzed with an aid of descriptive statistics and linear regression model was used to determine significant factors that determine market prices of avocado fruits among smallholder farmers. The demographic characteristics of avocado farmers showed that;61.2% of farmers had age between 36 to 59 years old, 84.7% were married, 74.6% had primary education level, average number of 5 members of the family, average 4.3 acres of owned land and 1.8 acres planted with avocado. Moreover, findings showed that 90.9% grew improved avocado varieties. Farm gate (88.5%) was the major market outlet chosen by avocado farmers. Local merchants and processors were the major buyers of the produced avocado. Results from linear regression analysis showed that variety grown (P P P P < 0.05) were factors that statistically influenced market prices for avocado fruits. The study concluded that despite the remarkable contributions to livelihood of the farmers yet, it is highly fragile on market prices. Therefore, the study recommends the need to establish market systems that will govern avocado fruits marketing for sustainability of the sub-sector.
基金a phased achievement of“Research on the Digital Transformation Mechanism and Policies of the Agricultural Industry in the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle”(Ref.:24YBCY03),a project funded by the Sichuan Academy of Social Sciences。
文摘Based on micro-survey data from 894 farmers in Sichuan Province,this study employs the Ordinary Least Squares(OLS),Two-Stage Least Squares(2SLS),mediating effect,and moderating effect models to comprehensively analyze the mechanisms and effects of digital literacy in empowering farmers’common prosperity.Endogeneity and robustness are addressed using the Sobel test,the Bootstrap,and moderating effect plots.The findings indicate that first,after controlling for variables such as age,gender,and planting years,digital literacy significantly and positively influences the common prosperity of farmers at the 5%level;second,enhanced digital literacy promotes higher levels of technology adoption and information accumulation among farmers,thereby increasing the probability of achieving common prosperity.The mediating effects of technology adoption and information sharing account for 21.10%and 33.94%of the total effect,respectively;and third,the information environment and financial empowerment play positive moderation roles in the effect of digital literacy on farmers’common prosperity,with the moderation effects significant at the 1%and 10%levels,respectively.Therefore,we recommend policies that enhance the access of farmers to digital literacy training,strengthen rural digital infrastructure,establish integrated rural information-sharing platforms,and create an enabling environment for the adoption of digital technologies.
基金Supported by General Project of the National Social Science Foundation(Topic 20BJY135)。
文摘As China enters a new stage of agricultural modernization,understanding how rural e-commerce can address the multidimensional relative poverty of farmers is of significant research importance.This research utilized data from China Household Finance Survey(CHFS)and China Statistical Yearbook to construct a multi-dimensional relative poverty index system and an evaluation index system for rural e-commerce development.A fixed-effect model was employed to test the direct impact,and an intermediary-effect model was used to analyze the mechanism.The study found that rural e-commerce effectively alleviated multidimensional relative poverty among farmers,with varying effects across different dimensions.Notably,improving digital payment levels and non-agricultural employment were effective means by which rural e-commerce mitigated this poverty.However,the impact of rural e-commerce showed regional heterogeneity.Based on these findings,this research offered a series of countermeasures and suggestions.
文摘Continuously broadening the channels for farmers’income growth and effectively narrowing the urban-rural income gap is the central task in the new development stage to comprehensively promote rural revitalization and achieve the common prosperity of farmers and rural areas.The promotion of rural e-commerce and the enhancement of farmers’digital skills provide potential for this endeavor.Taking Zhejiang province,a demonstration area for common prosperity,as the research object,this study collected 1,119 valid questionnaires through field surveys.Based on the reconstruction of a comprehensive evaluation index for farmers’digital skills using principal component analysis,this paper further investigates the relationship between the level of farmers’digital skills and their income by employing the CRITIC weighting method,mediating mechanism testing,and grouped regression analysis.The research finds that improving digital skills can significantly enhance farmers’income levels,with the income growth effect being more pronounced among older groups with lower educational levels and limited digital skills.Digital skills not only directly promote farmers’income growth but also indirectly further enhance their income level by increasing their use of rural e-commerce,and thus the use of rural e-commerce serves as a significant mediating variable in the relationship between digital skills and farmers’income growth.These conclusions remain valid after a series of robustness tests,including endogeneity tests,the replacement of weight designs for digital skills,and the exclusion of outlier samples.Finally,the paper proposes policy recommendations such as offering more digital skills and e-commerce training,encouraging the return of new rural elites to promote regional clusters of rural e-commerce,and providing targeted policy support for the development of rural e-commerce.
基金This paper presents preliminary research findings from two projects:a major project funded by the National Social Science Fund of China,titled“Changes in the Nature of Rural Poverty in China in the New Era and Research on Post-2020 Anti-Poverty Policies”(Project No:19ZDA116)Doctoral Research Project under the Special Program for Talents in Shortage Areas Serving National Needs,Nanjing University of Finance and Economics,titled“The Impact of Policy-Based Agricultural Insurance on Farmers’Income and Welfare Levels”(Project No:BSZX2021-12).
文摘Agricultural insurance plays a key role in promoting the coordinated development of green agriculture and farmers’income growth,which is crucial for China’s high-quality agricultural development.Using the coupling coordination degree model,this study empirically demonstrates that the development of agricultural insurance significantly promotes the coordinated development of green agriculture and farmers’income growth once a certain threshold is exceeded.This effect is more pronounced in the major grain-producing regions and the central provinces.Expanding the scale of agricultural production and increasing investment in agricultural technology are the key mechanisms through which agricultural insurance supports the dual goals of green agriculture and income growth in China.In conclusion,this study proposes several policy recommendations,which include increasing investment in agricultural insurance infrastructure,strengthening the policy guidance for agricultural insurance,and designing differentiated agricultural insurance policies.
基金the initial outcome of the Research on Strategies and Paths for Digital Economy Promoting Green Development Transformation of Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle(ID:2023ZDSC10)a major project under Chongqing’s Social Science Planning for the construction of the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle,the Research on Paths for Digital Village Development Empowering Western China to Narrow the Urban-Rural Income Gap in the New Development Stage(ID:SWU2209220)a capacity enhancement project supported by Central Government’s Special Fund for the Basic Research Activities of Colleges and Universities,and the Dual Circulation in the National Economy Empowering Rural Revitalization(ID:SWUPilotPlan025)under the 2035 Pilot Plan of Southwest University.
文摘The development of digital villages and the expansion of farmers’consumption are important measures for expanding domestic demand and enhancing rural productive forces.Based on provincial panel data from China spanning 2010 to 2022,this paper establishes an evaluation indicator system for the development of digital villages,and empirically examines the impact of the development of digital villages on farmers’consumption growth,as well as its mechanisms,and spatial spillover effects.The results indicate that digital village development significantly promotes growth in the consumption of farmers,with the effects being more pronounced in the central and western regions.Mechanism analysis reveals that digital village development has a significant income-increasing effect and it improves the convenience of payments,both of which serve as important channels for promoting farmers’consumption growth.Further analysis demonstrates the significant spatial spillover effects of digital village development on farmers’consumption growth.Specifically,farmers’consumption growth is not only directly influenced by local digital village development and the demonstration effect of consumption growth in neighboring regions,but it is also indirectly influenced by the digital village development of nearby areas.Therefore,the promotion of digital village development,tailored to local conditions,the broadening of channels for increasing farmers’income,the strengthening of digital inclusive finance,and the rational leveraging of the spatial spillover effects of digital village development can further unleash the potential of farmers’consumption.
基金Sponsored by Science and Technology Project of Qiandongnan Prefecture“The Integration Effect of Green‘Culture-Tourism’Industry in Qiandongnan Prefecture and Its Enhancement Mechanism”(202305)Science and Technology Project of Qiandongnan Prefecture“Construction and Empirical Study of an Integration Model for Tourism and Culture Industry in Qiandongnan from the Perspective of Quality Development”(2022084).
文摘In the information age,the movement of livelihood factors between urban and rural areas,particularly involving farmers in rural tourism destinations,has stimulated the spatial revitalization and functional renewal of these destinations,thereby facilitating the advancement of rural revitalization.The examination of livelihood strategy selection among farmers in rural tourist destinations during the information age is a critical scientific inquiry for the sustainable development of rural tourism.This research holds substantial significance for enhancing the livelihood capabilities of farmers and contributing to the revitalization of rural industries.This study utilizes Xijiang Miao Village as a case study to conduct an in-depth analysis of farmers’livelihood strategy selection through the application of the entropy evaluation method and the binary logistic regression model.The findings indicate that the robust development of rural tourism has led to significant alterations in the original composition of livelihood capital in tourist destinations.Currently,four distinct types of livelihoods have been identified:agricultural-based,migrantwork-oriented,tourism-specialized,and tourism-supplemented.Due to the uneven distribution of livelihood capital,the predominant livelihood modes for farmers in rural tourism destinations remain the agricultural-based and tourism-supplemented types.Human capital and economic capital are the primary factors influencing the strategic choices made by farmers.In this context,a livelihood selection strategy for farmers in rural tourist destinations,specifically in Xijiang Miao Village,is proposed,taking into account the background of rural informatization.
基金Under the auspices of National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.42371313,41971268)。
文摘To reduce poverty and promote sustainable development in rural areas,it is crucial to explore the impact of labor mobility on the sustainable livelihoods in mountainous regions.Here,based on a questionnaire survey of farmers and in-depth interview data in the area of the Qinling-Daba Mountains of China in 2021,we analyzed the characteristics of labor mobility,with livelihood capital as the entry point,discussed the impact of labor mobility on farmers’sustainable livelihood using propensity score matching(PSM).The res-ults showed that labor mobility was common in the Qinling-Daba Mountains area,with some form of labor mobility in 61.97%of households.The majority of households had only male mobility,and labor mobility tended to be small in scale,low in frequency,yet permanent and over long distances.Labor mobility had a significantly positive impact on farmers in mountainous regions,increasing the livelihood sustainability of rural households by 7.83%.However,the impact of labor mobility on different livelihood capital was differ-ent,which had the greatest improvement on financial capital,followed by social capital,although it weakened natural capital to some extent.Except for high-frequency mobility,the comprehensive impact of other types of labor mobility was positive.Among them,medi-um-scale mobility,seasonal mobility,inter-provincial mobility,and low-frequency mobility had more pronounced positive effects on farmers’sustainable livelihoods.Our study provided a reference to guide policy on rural migration,with the aim of providing support for the sustainable development of mountainous villages.
文摘Small-scale farming accounts for 78% of total agricultural production in Kenya and contributes to 23.5% of the country’s GDP. Their crop production activities are mostly rainfed subsistence with any surplus being sold to bring in some income. Timely decisions on farm practices such as farm preparation and planting are critical determinants of the seasonal outcomes. In Kenya, most small-scale farmers have no reliable source of information that would help them make timely and accurate decisions. County governments have extension officers who are mandated with giving farmers advisory services to farmers but they are not able to reach most farmers due to facilitation constraints. The mode and format of sharing information is also critical since it’s important to ensure that it’s timely, well-understood and usable. This study sought to assess access to geospatial derived and other crop production information by farmers in four selected counties of Kenya. Specific objectives were to determine the profile of small-scale farmers in terms of age, education and farm size;to determine the type of information that is made available to them by County and Sub-County extension officers including the format and mode of provision;and to determine if the information provided was useful in terms of accuracy, timeliness and adequacy. The results indicated that over 80% of the farmers were over 35 years of age and over 56% were male. Majority had attained primary education (34%) or secondary education (29%) and most farmers in all the counties grew maize (71%). Notably, fellow farmers were a source of information (71%) with the frequency of sharing information being mostly seasonal (37%) and when information was available (43%). Over 66% of interviewed farmers indicating that they faced challenges while using provided information. The results from the study are insightful and helpful in determining effective ways of providing farmers with useful information to ensure maximum benefits.
基金supported by the National Social Science Fund of China(19BGL152)the Sichuan Technology Planning Project,China(2022JDTD0022)the Provincial College Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program of Sichuan Province,China(S202310626018).
文摘Identifying the factors influencing farmers’adoption of low-carbon technologies(FA)and understanding their impacts are essential for shaping effective agricultural policies amied at emission reduction and carbon sequestration in China.This study employs a meta-analysis of 122 empirical studies,delves into 23 driving factors affecting FA and addresses the inconsistencies present in the existing literature.We systematically examine the effect size,source of heterogeneity,and time-accumulation effect of the driving factors on FA.We find that significant heterogeneity in the factors influencing FA,except for farming experience,sources of heterogeneity from the survey zone,methodology model,technological attributes,report source,financial support,and the sampling year.Additionally,age,farming experience,and adoption cost negatively correlate with FA.In contrast,educational level,health status,technical training,economic and welfare cognition,land contract,soil quality,terrain,information accessibility,demonstration,government promotion,government regulation,government support,agricultural cooperatives member,peer effect,and agricultural income ratio demonstrate a positive correlation.Especially,demonstration and age show a particularly strong correlation.Finally,the effect of demonstration,age,economic and welfare cognition,farming experience,land contract,soil quality,information accessibility,government promotion,and support,as well as agricultural cooperative membership and peer effects on FA,are generally stable but exhibit varying degrees of attenuation over time.The effect of village cadre,family income,farm scale,gender,health status,technical training,and off-farm work on FA show notable temporal shifts and maintain a weak correlation with FA.This study contributes to shaping China’s current low-carbon agriculture policies across various regions.It encourages policymakers to comprehensively consider the stability of key factors,other potential factors,technological attributes,rural socio-economic context,and their interrelations.
文摘Smallholder farmers in Ahafo Ano North District,Ghana,face multiple climatic and non-climatic issues.This study assessed the factors contributing to the livelihood vulnerability of smallholder farmers in this district by household surveys with 200 respondents and focus group discussions(FGDs)with 10 respondents.The Mann–Kendall trend test was used to assess mean annual rainfall and temperature trends from 2002 to 2022.The relative importance index(RII)value was used to rank the climatic and non-climatic factors perceived by respondents.The socioeconomic characteristics affecting smallholder farmers’perceptions of climatic and non-climatic factors were evaluated by the binary logistic regression model.Results showed that mean annual rainfall decreased(P>0.05)but mean annual temperature significantly increased(P<0.05)from 2002 to 2022 in the district.The key climatic factors perceived by smallholder farmers were extreme heat or increasing temperature(RII=0.498),erratic rainfall(RII=0.485),and increased windstorms(RII=0.475).The critical non-climatic factors were high cost of farm inputs(RII=0.485),high cost of healthcare(RII=0.435),and poor condition of roads to farms(RII=0.415).Smallholder farmers’perceptions of climatic and non-climatic factors were significantly affected by their socioeconomic characteristics(P<0.05).This study concluded that these factors negatively impact the livelihoods and well-being of smallholder farmers and socioeconomic characteristics influence their perceptions of these factors.Therefore,to enhance the resilience of smallholder farmers to climate change,it is necessary to adopt a comprehensive and context-specific approach that accounts for climatic and non-climatic factors.
基金funded by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities“Research on the Impact of Social Quality and Political Trust on Farmers’Well-Being in the Post-Poverty Alleviation Era”(21lzujbkydx012)the Project of Gansu Province for Philosophy and Social Sciences Planning“Research on the Strategies to Improve Farmers’Well-Being in Gansu Province From the Perspective of Social Quality”(2021YB012).
文摘The goal of village governance is to improve the well-being of farmers,so this study aims to measure the impact the quality of village governance on the well-being of farmers.It also examines the heterogeneity of this impact across different farmer groups from the perspectives of income levels and occupational differentiation.To this end,this study developed an indicator system based on survey data collected from 1,442 farmers in the Sichuan,Shaanxi,and Gansu provinces,as well as the Ningxia Hui autonomous region.Multiple linear regression models were then used to analyze this data,and the findings revealed that improvements in the quality of village governance significantly increased the well-being of farmers.Specifically,primary-level empowerment and capacity building were shown to contribute the most to the enhancement of the farmers’well-being,followed by social inclusion,and social cohesion was found to have only a minimal effect.In terms of income levels,improving the quality of village governance benefited middle-income farmers the most,followed by low-income farmers,and it had the least effect on high-income farmers.In terms of occupations,full-time farmers gained the most from improvements in the quality of village governance,followed by off-farm farmers,with part-time farmers benefiting the least.Based on these findings,this study suggests that policymakers should improve the quality of village governance to enhance the well-being of farmers,focusing on the impact that level of income and occupational differentiation have on village governance.
文摘Introduction: Pesticides are currently an essential component of agricultural production techniques for controlling pests and weeds. In Burkina Faso, non-compliance with good practice in the use of pesticides poses a real health problem for the population. This study examines the health risks associated with pesticide management in rice-growing areas. Material and Methods: A field survey was conducted in Bama, involving farmers, focusing on their socio-demographic characteristics, pesticide usage, and health effects. Cholinesterase levels were measured in subsample of farmers using a portable device. Data were analysed using Microsoft Excel, calculating means and percentages for various practices. Health consultations, protection methods, and pesticide management were studied. Erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase activity was compared before and after treatment. Data were categorised into classes based on inhibition levels, and correlation analyses determined relationships between variables such as age, years of experience, and cholinesterase activity. Results: The results indicate that rice cultivation is mainly carried out by a fairly young population, with nearly 63% being under the age of 50. Common poor practices in pesticide use include improper storage and reuse of leftover pesticides. Seven types of pesticides were identified, including organophosphates such as glyphosate, which was used in 26.7% of cases. This organophosphate has resulted in class B poisoning, causing a 30% - 50% reduction in erythrocyte cholinesterase activity. The health effects of pesticide use are felt by agricultural farmers through various symptoms of poisoning. Conclusion: To reduce the occurrence of pesticide poisoning, it is essential to launch information and awareness campaigns among the population and farmers to promote safe practices in pesticide use in Bama, Burkina Faso.
基金supported by the Inner Mongolia Education Department's Research Project(Grand No.STAQZX202307)the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Directly affiliated Universities Basic Scientific Research Project(Grand No.NCYWZ22005)the Inner Mongolia University of Finance and Economics Five Major Tasks Research Project(Grand No.NCXWD2409).
文摘In order to explore the impact of changes in rural livelihoods in China on the environmental awareness and behavior of farmers,with the Huaibei Plain as an example,309 farmer households in Lingbi County in Huaibei Plain were surveyed.The variance analysis was used to determine the differences in environmental perceptions and pro-environmental behavior of farmers with different livelihoods.Structural equation models were used to analyze the relationships between livelihood type and environmental perception and behavior.The results show:(1)As the level of non-agricultural activities engaged in by farmers increases,their environmental perceptions shift,evidenced by a rise in both the Environmental Concern Index(ECI)and the Awareness of Pollution Hazards Index(APHI).However,there is a corresponding decrease in their Perception of Changes within the Agroecosystem(PCAE).(2)APHI caused by automobiles,pesticides,and fertilizers varies significantly among groups with different livelihood strategies(p<0.05).(3)Pro-environmental behavior(PEB),particularly in the realms of green consumption and waste management,correlates with the level of non-agriculturalization.Significant variations in these behaviors are observed among farmers with different livelihood strategies(p<0.05).(4)The livelihood strategies have significant direct impact on farmers’environmental perceptions(path coefficient 0.923 p<0.001)and a significant indirect impact on farmers’PEB(path coefficient 0.913 p<0.001).Thus,as farmers shift away from agriculture,their environmental perceptions and behaviors are changing.Diversifying livelihoods reduces dependence on natural resources and increases access to environmental knowledge.This diversification fosters greater awareness of environmental issues and a willingness of farmers to adopt environmentally friendly practices,positively impacting rural environment.Thus,by promoting diversified livelihoods,it is possible to create a powerful strategy for rural environmental governance.
文摘When contributing to participatory research, farmers usually appreciate the performance of cowpea varieties using qualitative scores. The score they attribute to each variety are based on local knowledge. The specific criteria they individually use to attribute a score are not well described. The objectives of this work were to: 1) identify and describe exhaustively the local criteria used by farmers to measure the agronomic performance of cowpea;2) assess the variability and statistical structure of these farmer criteria across local contexts;3) and analyze the association between these farmer criteria and the classical agronomic measurement. To achieve these objectives, an augmented block design was implemented across fifteen locations in the regions of Maradi, Dosso and Tillabéri, representing a diversity of local contexts. From a set of 36 cowpea varieties, fifteen varieties were sown per location, including five varieties (controls) common to all locations. In each location, two replicates were sown in randomized Fisher’s blocks. After agronomic measurement and participatory evaluation (scoring of varieties by farmers), a group survey (focus group) was conducted in each location to identify the criteria considered by farmers to found their discretional scoring of varieties during the participatory evaluation. The analysis of the data identified, across locations, thirteen criteria defined by farmers to characterize the agronomic performance of cowpea. Some of these criteria were different according to location. Farmers ranked the three varieties with the best performance for each agronomical trait (Top 3 varieties). A comparison of the farmer ranking with the ranking based on agronomic measurements revealed similarity and complementary between both methods. This study highlighted the importance of considering both local and scientific knowledge in local varietal evaluations.
文摘This research delves into the hurdles and strategies aimed at augmenting the market involvement of smallholder carrot farmers in Nakuru County, Kenya. Employing a Multinomial Logit (MNL) model, it scrutinizes the factors influencing the selection of marketing outlets among carrot farmers. The findings unveil that a significant majority (81%) of surveyed farmers actively participate in diverse market outlets, encompassing the farm gate, cleaning point, local market, external market, and export market. Notably, pivotal buyers include aggregators, brokers, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers, with transactions predominantly occurring at the farm level. Additionally, the analysis discerns substantial influences of socio-economic characteristics, experiential factors, and geographical proximity on farmers’ choices of market outlets. Specifically, gender, age, land size, farming experience, and distance to markets emerge as critical determinants. Moreover, the study delves into the examination of market margins along the carrot value chain, shedding light on the potential profitability of carrot farming in the region. Remarkably, higher average gross margins are identified in export and external markets, signaling lucrative prospects for farmers targeting these segments. However, disparities in profit distribution between farmers and traders underscore the necessity for interventions to ensure equitable value distribution throughout the value chain. These findings underscore the imperative for tailored interventions to tackle challenges and foster inclusive agricultural development. Strategies such as farmer organizations, contracting, and vertical integration are advocated to enhance market access and profitability for smallholder carrot farmers. Thus, this study enriches our comprehension of the dynamics within carrot value chains and provides valuable insights for policymakers and development practitioners aiming to uplift rural livelihoods and bolster food security.
文摘The cattle production in Romeas Haek district,Svay Rieng province,was developed remarkably,since there were some households raising cattle in large number,more than 20 heads.The grazing method of cattle was tethering and free grassing in the commune grass,since the natural grass and rice straw were the main source of cattle feed,however some of them supplemented their cattle with crop-byproducts,planting grass or concentrated feed.For the majority,BCS(Body Condition Scoring)of the cattle in those areas was 3 accounting for 52%-73.33%,but it was found the thin cattle has low BCS of 2 accounting for 11.11%to 40.00%and also fat cattle has BCS of 4 up to 27.78%.However,the average BCS varied with village which ranged from 2.68 to 3.17,but is not different in term of commune and sex of cattle.Besides facing with shortage of feed,the experience with diseases was also another concern,since 85.71%to 95.83%of the households faced this problem last year.Among the clinical signs found,lumpy skin was 100%,i.e.no one escaped from this problem,thus making them aware of vaccinating their cattle against some diseases such as FMD(Foot and Mouth Disease),HS(Hemorrhagic Septicemia)and LSD(Lumpy Skin Disease),but mostly vaccination was used against FMD.Because the LSD has occurred in these areas since 2020,then the seroprevalence was found in high positive up to 72.62%by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay(ELISA)test.This positive rate was also varying by villages,ranging from 53.3%to 94.44%.But there was no association between positive cattle with commune,BCS,sex and age of cattle.In conclusion,the cattle production in Romeas Haek district,Svay Rieng province had developed markedly,however the shortage of feed and disease occurrence are the main challenges for farmer cattle producers,especially LSD outbreak last year.However,most of the farmers have been aware of the benefit of vaccination and had vaccinated their cattle against those main disease,such as FMD,HS and LSD.
文摘Agriculture is one of the priority sectors in Timor-Leste. Introducing new agriculture technology is crucial to enhance agricultural production. Practicing cattle fattening can increase beef cattle body weight and generate income to the beef cattle farmers. As farmers face problems including agricultural production decline, lack of forages and information and weather unfavourable. The study’s purpose was to examine the impact of adoption of cattle fattening technology on farmer households in Atabae administrative post, Bobonaro municipality in Timor-Leste. There were 200 beef cattle farmers households where randomly selected in four villages in Atabae. It consisted of 65 farmers practicing cattle fattening and 135 farmers non-practicing cattle fattening. Face to face interviews used structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis such as t-test and descriptive analysis were used to examine impact adoption of cattle fattening technology by farmers and factor constraints of cattle production and the solutions of it. The results indicated the average value of cattle and profit were significant different from zero and it is associated with practicing of cattle fattening. The average of labour used on cattle activities, the average of cattle sold, and total cost spent on cattle were not significant different from zero. The percentage of farmers said that factors constraints cattle production were shortage of water and forage (53%) and spend time on culture ceremony and lack of capital (33%). The number of farmers said that they collected water from river, feed cattle with sago and forage (55.3%) and cultivated forage (23.4%). This finding contributes information to the farmers, traders, and Timorese government to continue implementing cattle fattening activities as it enhances farmers’ income and developing cattle production.
