Abstract:
The economies of most rural communities in Ethiopia depend on agriculture. Despite
agriculture being the main source of income for farmers, the introduction of invasive alien
species such as Parthenium weed is among the many factors that affect agricultural
production and productivity of the farmer and it acts against its sustainability. This study
aimed at gauging women’s interest and ability to participate in the adoption of bio-control
agents for control of Parthenium infestation in Tullo district. Assessing pre-conditions
necessary for women to adopt bio-control agents, investigatingthe existence of the preconditions
to adopt bio-control agents of Parthenium control and identifying gender factors
affecting women’s interest and ability to participate in the release and management of biocontrol
agents against Parthenium in the study area were the specific objectives of the study.
For the study, 130 women were selected randomly from the selected kebeles, 20 focus group
discussants and 10 subject matter specialists were also the sources of information for the
study. To collect data, interview schedule, key informants interview and focus group
discussions were used. Primary data were collected from respondents, focus group
participants and key informants. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive
statistics (frequency and percentage) and the qualitative data were explained. Although
Parthenium has many side effects in human and animal health, traditionally it is used for
medicinal and house cleaning purpose. Bio-control methods of Parthenium infestation were
not available and not known in the study area. However, all of the information sources
communicated showed interest and motivation to cooperate, to adopt and use this approach of
Parthenium control. Trainings, inputs and incentives were some of the pre-conditions
necessary for women to adopt bio-control agents against Parthenium invasion. Due to their
social and reproductive responsibilities, women were prohibited from taking part in the
trainings given to them because of the training centers. Providing adult education and
trainings, creating awareness, facilitating experience sharing among the farmers and
conducting trainings for women in the nearest places were very important to overcome the
gap. The bio-agents should not have any contradiction to the culture and religion of the
community and they should not have any side effects on the environment, non-targeted crops,
and human and animal health. As the traditional control methods were not successful, a joint
effort of stakeholders mainly farmers, agriculture office, research institutes, academic
institutions and projects like IPM- IL(Integrated Pest Management Innovation
Lab)Parthenium project and other governmental and nongovernmental organizations is
necessary for implementing bio-control agents on this invasive alien weed to ensure better
production in the area
