Food systems

Innovative organic vegetable cultivation to strengthen traditional varieties in East Africa

Brief description of the project

In East Africa, the cultivation and sale of vegetables play a vital role for the population. However, vegetable production is severely affected by the infestation of plant pests and diseases. To meet this challenge without chemical pesticides, a gentle, ecological solution is being used.

Together with the experts from the partner organizations, vegetable farmers develop and validate organic, integrated pest controls. The most important vegetable pests are controlled using push-pull systems, beneficial insects, parasitic fungi, biopesticides and the use of resistant, native vegetable varieties. The project activities contribute to improving food and environmental security, reducing the use of harmful pesticides and increasing the income opportunities of smallholder vegetable producers.