Integrated Soil Water and Nutrient Management and Dry ... - Icrisat

understanding of the determinants of farm performance and their
awareness of technical options to improve food security, raise their standard
of living, and enhance the sustainability of agricultural land use
• Increase production in communal and small-scale farming areas of
Zimbabwe through better crop management improving crop protection
practices
The objectives of the impact assessment were to:
• Evaluate the impact of IPPM as a farming technology
• Evaluate the standard of living of the trained farmers
• Evaluate FSGs as an extension methodology
Research approach
The methodology was standardized through the use of a questionnaire
developed by provincial coordinators. Each provincial team visited at least two
FSGs in their provinces and interviewed at least five farmers from each group
randomly selected. (Individual provincial reports are available from the author.)
The results were discussed at a workshop held in Gweru in October 2002.
Results
IPPM impact
• It was very clear that information was obtained from extension services,
other farmers, during field days and shows, and over the radio.
• Farming experiences differed from district to district within one province
depending on what crops farmers grew.
• More farmers were now using a combination of compound fertilizers as
basal and organic fertilizers.
• Few farmers have increased hectarage in cotton since the training.
• There was no significant change in yield but profits have increased due to
lowering of input costs, especially that of chemicals for pest control in
cotton and tomatoes.
• There has been a reduction in the frequency of pesticide applications per
season for both cotton and tomatoes.
• Use of protective clothing increased and improved. Agro-ecosystem
analysis (AESA) was well understood and being used in farmers’ fields.
Impact of FSGs
• This methodology was effective, as farmers did not have to move from their
homes for training.
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