Farmers’ perceptions and practices regarding safe use of synthetic pesticides in Awi and West Gojjam Zones, Ethiopia

Abstract

Synthetic pesticides are widely used in Ethiopian agriculture to reduce crop losses caused by pests and diseases. However, limited knowledge, unsafe handling practices, and weak regulatory enforcement increase health and environmental risks, particularly among smallholder farmers. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 smallholder farmers in the Awi and West Gojjam Zones using multistage random sampling. Data were collected via structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and on-site observations. Farmers’ perceptions were assessed using the Health Belief Model (HBM), including perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits, barriers, and cues to action. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests evaluated associations between perceptions and sociodemographic factors. Most respondents were male (92.4%) with primary education or less (87.7%). Over 70% applied pesticides more than twice per year, yet only 4.1% practiced integrated pest management. Unsafe practices were prevalent, including storing pesticides inside living spaces (57.6%), non-use of personal protective equipment during application (88.4%), and reuse of empty containers for domestic purposes (59%). Farmers’ perceived susceptibility and severity were low: 76.6% did not associate pesticide exposure with adverse health effects, and 89.5% expressed minimal concern for environmental impacts. Perception of risk was significantly associated with sex, education, and household income (p < 0.05). Farmers in northwest Ethiopia heavily rely on synthetic pesticides while engaging in unsafe practices and demonstrating low risk perception. Integrated interventions are urgently needed, including HBM-informed safety training, promotion of integrated pest management, and stronger regulation of highly hazardous pesticides. Targeted action is particularly needed to protect vulnerable groups, including women and children, and to safeguard human and environmental health.