CABI study unearths important lessons for the fight against fall armyworm
A study by CABI contributes important knowledge on fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda). CABI’s research findings suggests that employing more sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions could help mitigate the damaging impacts of the species.
How plant doctor training supports smallholder farmers in Nepal
In Nepal, the International Development Enterprise (iDE) has introduced an approach to address the challenges smallholder farmers face in accessing agricultural inputs and advice. Known as Community Business Facilitators (CBFs), these individuals are local citizens trained to provide agricultural services within their communities. Some CBFs also train as plant doctors (CBF-PDs) through CABI’s PlantwisePlus programme,…
Empowering smallholder farmers in Kenya to produce sustainable safe food
Smallholder farmers play a vital role in feeding communities around the world. In Kenya, the CABI-led PlantwisePlus programme is making significant strides to enable these farmers to grow safe and high-quality foods through sustainable crop production.
Integrated Pest Management upskilling initiative benefits wider community in Nakuru, Kenya
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is one of the tools for low-pesticide-input pest management. In the heart of Kenya’s Nakuru County, a PlantwisePlus initiative is underway. It aims to upskill and support women and young people to initiate agribusinesses that champion low-risk pest control products and practices. These micro-businesses provide employment for the trainees, while farmers…
Boosting the usage of CABI’s digital tools through communication, collaboration, and co-creation
Food security and food safety are two complementing elements of a sustainable future. Unexpected crop losses due to pests and diseases lead to food insecurity, and indiscriminate pesticide usage to control the pest/ disease hamper food safety. In such situations, countries need novel solutions that maintain food safety while addressing food security issues.
Ukulima True – a Kenyan farming campaign to help reduce the risk of pesticides
As demand for food grows globally, farming practices must intensify. Farmers will need to use more low-risk tools to tackle plant pests and diseases. Pesticides are an important tool for pest management. However, they should be seen as part of a kit of many tools, not the only tool. This is because pesticides also pose…
New bioprotection course paves the way for a more sustainable agricultural landscape
CABI Academy‘s latest course, Introduction to Bioprotection Products, enables agricultural service providers to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills to support smallholder farmers using bioprotection products. Bioprotection, also known as biocontrol, is a more sustainable approach to pest management. Unlike conventional chemical pesticides, bioprotection products are derived from natural sources, making them a safer…
Plant health knowledge helps residents of wildlife conservancy turn from poaching to farming
Simalaha Community Conservancy aims to protect endangered wildlife. However, several years ago, it faced a big challenge. People living within the parks’ boundaries were poaching animals for food and income. The Conservancy is managed by Peace Parks Foundation. They addressed the problem by helping residents to shift from poaching to smallholder farming. But in 2020,…
Why we need a skills framework for agriculture
Agriculture has changed dramatically over the last 50 years. Technological progress and scientific research are constantly reshaping the roles within agriculture and the skills required to do them. As such, it is essential to have a well-defined skills framework to guide the workforce. The Skills for Agriculture (SfA) is a structured approach to identifying, developing, and…
Empowering farmers in Burundi through Plantwise plant health rallies
Plantwise is making big strides in Burundi to enhance food security and boost rural livelihoods. The CABI-led programme aims to equip farmers with essential plant health knowledge. This information enables them to minimize yield losses and increase their incomes. One of the key approaches involves conducting mass plant health rallies. These are community events where…