Participatory Approaches and Plant Diseases in Less Developed Countries

Globalisation and increasing demand for safe food, for example free from pesticide residues, and sustainable production practices, is increasing the need for farmers across the world to acquire new knowledge continually on crop production practices. Farmers on small holdings, particularly women, in resource-poor countries and communities often do not have ready access to information specific to their requirements for crop management and protection. They generally receive information through informal sources, such as neighbours, family and friends, and the agricultural industries. In many cases, staff from commercial organisations are more regular conveyors of information than the government extension service.