Perceptions des impacts de l’utilisation des pesticides et introduction des biopesticides par les maraîchers dans la Commune de Mokolo

This study, conducted among 152 market gardeners in 13 localities of the Mokolo Commune, analyzes their perception of pesticides and their openness to bio pesticides. The majority of farmers are men (66%), with a very young and young population (25-30 years: 31%; 30-35 years: 39%). The secondary education level is the most common (38%), while 21% have no formal training. 49% practice market gardening exclusively, while 28% combine it with food crop production. The results show that the most widely used pesticides are herbicides (61%) and insecticides (56%), while bio pesticides represent only 25%. However, 70% of farmers report a decline in biodiversity, and 60% are concerned about soil and water pollution. Health-wise, 28% suffer from respiratory problems and coughing, 25% from stomach pain, and 23% from skin irritations. According to 41% of farmers, pesticides alter the taste of vegetables, making
them blander, while 25% perceive increased acidity, and 20% report more bitterness. Only 34% are aware of biopesticides, but among them, 77% use them, primarily in the form of organic manure (25.9%), ashes (25.2%), and neem or papaya leaves (23.5%). Despite a growing interest (53% consider biopesticides beneficial), their adoption is hindered by limited availability (92%) and high costs (83%). An integrated approach involving all stakeholders is essential to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture.