The handweeding method used on smallholder farms in sub-Saharan Africa is largely detrimental to both women and agricultural production, according to a new study released by the Crop Protection Research Institute (CPRI), part of the CropLife Foundation (CLF). The report, “Solving Africa’s Weed Problem,” highlights the importance of solving the control issues in Africa and current industry efforts to provide farms with modern weed control technology.
The report summarizes 40 years of research that tested the application of herbicides in controlling weeds on smallholder farms. CPRI issued an estimate that the use of herbicides would reduce handweeding labor by 24 billion hours and result in additional crop yields of 36 million tons.
Often Overlooked
“The impact of the problem in Africa has been overlooked because weeding is often seen as work of little importance,” says CPRI Director Leonard Gianessi. “Huge investments are being made in improving seeds and promoting fertilizer use by small farmers; yet, the potential of these technologies will not be achieved without solving the yield-robbing effects of weeds.”
The report highlights current efforts to demonstrate the value of herbicides and introduce herbicide technology. As part of the project, CLF has partnered with a number of the developers and manufacturers. These organizations planted research corn plots in Malawi, Kenya, and Tanzania and found that crops treated with herbicides produced 26% more yields. In addition, the cost of herbicides was 50% lower than the cost of handweeding labor.
