19 November 2025 · 2 min read
Survey of 1,484 Ghanaian vegetable farmers on pesticide use and health
A study by Francis Clottey Odonkor and Prof. Stephen T. Odonkor, published in Crop Protection and featured in GIMPA’s Research Newsletter (March 2026), surveyed 1,484 vegetable farmers on pesticide use. It reports that 75.9% used suitable pesticides while 70% acknowledged negative health effects, and documents unsafe disposal such as burning containers (56.9%).
Authors: Francis Clottey Odonkor & Stephen T. Odonkor
Ghanaian farmers’ perspectives on pesticides: Balancing use and environmental sustainability
Pesticide use in agriculture is critical for pest management but poses significant health and environmental challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study explores Ghanaian vegetable farmers’ perspectives on pesticide use, health implications, and environmental sustainability. Using survey data from 1484 farmers, the research examined demographic profiles, farming practices, pesticide management behaviours, and associated attitudes. The findings reveal that most respondents are rural dwelling, middle-aged males with primary or junior high school education. Carrots and cabbage are the most cultivated crops, with most farmers having over a decade of experience. Although 75.9 % of farmers reported using suitable pesticides, 70 % acknowledged the negative health effects of pesticide use, citing harm and toxicity as primary concerns. Improper disposal practices, such as burning containers (56.9 %) and pouring rinse water onto farms (69.1 %), were prevalent, raising environmental sustainability concerns. A significant association between owning personal protective equipment (PPE) and its usage (p = 0.000) highlights the importance of access to safety measures in mitigating health risks. However, limited awareness of health implications (50.5 %) and reliance on pesticides as a default pest control strategy underscore the need for targeted education. The study emphasizes the urgency of promoting sustainable practices through integrated pest management (IPM), policy reforms, and community-based education. By addressing knowledge gaps and encouraging safer pesticide use, this research contributes to improving health outcomes and environmental sustainability in Ghana’s agricultural sector. These findings provide a foundation for future interventions aimed at balancing productivity and ecological stewardship in smallholder farming communities.