Investigation of Synthetic Pesticides Use in Isoka District of Muchinga Province in Zambia

Purpose: Different countries use different kinds of pesticides which affect the environment and animals in many different ways. The purpose of this study was to analyse pesticide use in Isoka district of Muchinga Province.The objectives were to identify commonly used synthetic pesticides and assess how farmers store them. Methodology: We collected primary data using well-structured questionnaires from 60 vegetable farmers in four agricultural camps. A cross-sectional survey design was employed and data were analysed using frequency and percentages of descriptive statistics. A p -value with test of significance of 0.05 was used. Findings: The commonly used Synthetic pesticides were found to be neonicotinoid 35% .Others that were found to be in use were ; Organophosphates 16%, Organochlorines 3% , Pyrethroids 10% , and Macrocyclic lactones 22% .The Unknown were 7% and carbamates 7% . The farmers kept their pesticides in their homes 53% and in their gardens 47%. Unique contribution to the theory, practice and policy: Neonicotinoid synthetic pesticides were the commonly used pesticides. Farmers kept synthetic pesticides in homes where they lived with children. Because of the effects that pesticides have to the environment, animals and man, this study recommend the need to sensitize farmers on the correct use so that exposure and further contamination of water, soil and vegetables are reduced .Farmers should construct separate store rooms where the said chemicals should be kept.There is need to strengthen institutional collaboration between Zambia environmental management agency and ministry of agriculture.