Bean IPM farmer groups at project sites in Kenya, Tanzania, and Malawi tested several traditional and improved IPM strategies by establishing learning and demonstration field plots and organizing a series of field days to evaluate, share, and disseminate results. Some farmers have started using combinations of some of the IPM strategies in their individual fields, especially those planted with improved high-yielding and pest- and/or drought-tolerant bean genotypes and varieties. The strategies were also combined with improved cultural practices.

New farmer groups were formed and more farmers were empowered to study, evaluate, and demand different services from other stakeholders (e.g., market information, seeds, and fertilizers). Exchange visits among farmer groups and across villages, districts, sites, and countries have enabled farmers to share knowledge, exchange experiences, and disseminate IPM information. Farmers have participated in refining and testing leaflets, posters, and farmer activity reports that have been prepared by the project for dissemination to village information centers (VICs) and wider audiences. Some leaflets and posters were translated into Kiswahili.

Contact: Robin Buruchara