In addressing the issue of pest and diseases associated with cocoa production, most cocoa farmers tend to rely primarily on pesticide application. This overdependence on pesticides has resulted in the influx application of approved or unapproved (highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs)). This practice is becoming even pronounced among women cocoa farmers, who in recent times have played significant roles in the cocoa supply chain.

 Awareness of pesticides, approved and unapproved is low amongst cocoa farmers in the Western North area of Ghana. With women being the least aware of such pesticides.   In a study carried out on the assessment of gender dynamics of highly hazardous pesticides (HHP’s) within Cocoa production landscape in Ghana, by Conservation Alliance, about 65% of the men were able to identify some of these pesticides whereas only 5% of women were able to identify highly hazardous pesticides. Generally, most farmers are not aware of the right pesticides to use. Pesticides chanced on are used without knowing their appropriate use. This poses serious effect to cocoa produced and the environment in general within the landscape.

For further information: info@conservealliance.org