Farmers’ Perceived Incidences of Pests and Diseases’ Infection Levels on Cashew Farming in Tunduru District in Tanzania
Abstract
This study examined the perceived incidences of cashew pests’ and diseases and their infection levels on cashew crops. The study used both primary and secondary data. Secondary data were collected through a literature survey and primary data were collected using structured interviews, observations and focus group discussions. A total of 120 respondents who engaged on cashew farming were selected for the study. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 was used to analyze the quantitative data. The findings revealed that the study area experienced increased rate of cashew pests and diseases incidences (92.5%). Among the cashew pests and diseases with high infection included aphids and cashew mosquito bug (pests) as well as powdery mildew and dieback (diseases). It is evident that there is increased rate of cashew pests and diseases in the recent years; this has been associated with climate change. The study recommends for raising awareness to the farmers on various adaptation strategies for the sustainable cashew farming.