Information transfer

In many cases, agricultural extension staff are only trained to conduct control techniques. They often lack sufficient experience to assess a situation and provide comprehensive advice to farmers. The benefits of including rodent management in the normal agricultural timetable are not made clear. It is suggested to include the following topics when training extension staff:

• benefits of regular rodent pest management
• rodent biology, ecology and behaviour
• checking for signs of infestation
• assessing structural conditions
• methods of proofing a building
• information on different storage containers
• control techniques including baiting procedures
• record keeping and monitoring
• communication techniques

In addition to training, a comprehensive extension brochure should be drawn up for staff. This will improve the quality of information transfer and motivate staff. Experience shows that farmers are well aware of rodent problems and, to a large extent, the necessary solutions. They need to be motivated into action. This can be achieved if extension staff discuss the problems with farmers and develop locally relevant solutions, using a participative approach.

Finally, involving other target groups, (i.e. women, pesticide dealers, teachers and medical staff), will improve awareness of rodent pests in the community and lead to more widespread action. In most areas, women process and prepare the food, regularly use the store and are responsible for the vegetables grown near the house. Therefore, it is important to specifically address this group in meetings. Reasons why rodent pest management often takes a low priority are listed below.