Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Changes as a result of the PEAR process
The ability to use interactive techniques to convey messages on environment
and health has developed significantly among farmer trainers. In fact, during
training sessions, participating farmers demanded that such techniques
be used. They remarked that systematic questioning to facilitate issue
identification and problem solving provided them with new skills to organize
their thoughts and reflect on issues. The use of existing skill sets, such as
drawing illustrations, has also reinforced group capacity.
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The link between environment and health and agricultural practices has
become an important theme for GIE Provania. It has been incorporated into
their daily activities and integrated into their work in the intra-urban wetlands
(Niayes) zone. A significant reduction in waste pesticide containers has been
noted in the fields, which suggests the possibility that fewer pesticides are
being used and that improved disposal methods have been adopted. As a
result of discussions between the researcher and GIE Provania, a Senegalese
pesticide formulator named Senchim has entered into discussion with the
farmers so as to develop a waste-collection system for empty pesticide
containers.
As a result of analytical exercises to identify barriers and solutions in
order to address environmental health issues, the GIE has developed action
plans, including greater development of techniques to avoid pesticide
exposure, such as IPM, more prudent crop choices, use of personal protective
equipment and first aid. Farmers are currently seeking funding for these
activities in partnership with such organizations as ANCAR, ENDA Rup,
IFAN, ISRA and other GIEs.
C
ONCLUSIONS
Data on environmental and health risk perceptions suggest that farmers are
aware of pesticides' health effects, as illustrated by the congruence of reported
symptoms with known health effects. This was not so evident for wastewater.
The use of participatory techniques to transmit information on health and the
environment and strategize for action is a new approach in the Niayes, which
has been adopted by farmers.
Farmers' perceptions on the relationship between malaria and UA figure
prominently among the themes for additional research. Further research is
needed in order to investigate the contribution of UA and peri-urban
agriculture (UPA) to anopheles densities (Klinkenberg et al, 2005). More
emphasis should be given to learning regional languages and verifying
translations to ensure access to the most marginalized groups and greater
validity of research findings. In addition, more time in the field is required so
that research agendas with local researchers could be better coordinated. Such
time could also improve the interpretation of findings. Furthermore, more
PEAR studies should be implemented to assess the contributions of different
approaches, as well as of tools for joint learning and action in UA settings.