Imazapyr-resistant maize technology adoption for witch weed control in western Kenya

Type Journal Article - African Crop Science Journal
Title Imazapyr-resistant maize technology adoption for witch weed control in western Kenya
Author(s)
Volume 19
Issue 3
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2011
Page numbers 173-182
URL http://www.ajol.info/index.php/acsj/article/download/74163/64822
Abstract
Witch weed (Striga (genus) is a major constraint to cereal production in sub-Saharan Africa. A new technology
known as imazapyr-resistant maize (IRM) has proven to be effective in controlling it. This study examined the
status of IRM adoption in western Kenya. A cross sectional survey that included 600 households, of which 169
were IRM adopters and 431 were non-adopters, was conducted in Nyanza and Western Provinces of Kenya.
There was a considerable difference in IRM use according to location. The adoption rate was 28% of the targeted
farming population. The performance difference in adoption between the intervention and non-intervention areas
was in the range of 25%. Initiating a cluster-based approach to enhance information flow and increasing stakeholders’
interaction and involvement within the farmers’ clusters can help potential adopters to make more informed
decisions by protecting maize (Zea mays L.) crop in western Kenya from Striga.

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