Assessment of Yield Losses and Farmers’ Perceptions on Control Practices of Fall Armyworm: the Case of Maize Infestation in Trans-nzoia County, Kenya

Abstract

Maize is a principal staple crop in Kenya, largely grown under rain-fed agriculture. Its production is faced with numerous constraints both biotic and abiotic. Invasive species have been a major challenge; the most recent in Kenya being Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda). Fall Armyworm is a pest native to tropical and subtropical regions of America which if not effectively managed can result in total crop failure. Maize yield loss estimates due to Fall Armyworm have been reported on a regional basis, thus masking the specific magnitude of economic loss incurred by farmers’ which affects rural communities’ livelihoods. Moreover, there is a paucity of information on farmers’ perceptions of FAW control practices employed by farmers to curb the damage caused by the pest. This study sought to examine the magnitude of losses at the farm level caused by FAW and determine the driving factors influencing variations of losses among maize farmers. This study further sought to assess farmers’ perceptions of FAW control practices and their determinants. A sample of 257 farmers from Kiminini Sub-County, Trans-Nzoia County was selected using systematic random sampling, and data collected using semi-structured questionnaires. Farmer perceived direct estimates and an iterative bidding procedure were used to assess maize yield losses, while drivers of losses among maize farmers were examined by use of a linear multiple robust regression. Principal component analysis was used to reduce the numerous and correlated variables into definite perceptions. Multiple linear regressions were fitted to determine factors influencing the perception scores obtained. Results from the study showed that Fall Armyworm losses average at 0.703 tons per acre. Fall Armyworm maize related losses were influenced by different variables such as group membership, household size, access to extension services, years of formal schooling attained, distance to market among others. Principal component analysis showed that the main farmer perceptions were; increased productivity, environmental safety, socially acceptable, promotion efforts, and availability. These perception scores were found to be influenced by different sets of variables such as income, sex, age, primary occupation, and household size among others. Based on the findings, there is a need to increase extension services, package the approach and material training content to target farmers, organization of farmers into active groups that are agriculture-related, and consider farmer perceptions. Additionally, farmers' perceptions were explained by a combination of factors such as schooling years, sex, age, extension access, group membership among others. These will play a vital role to inform and aid policy makers and technology developers, in concerted efforts towards formulation and dispensation of a well-coordinated, flexible, and effective integrated FAW management