Independent impact assessment of push-pull technology by Intercooperation, Switzerland
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The push-pull impact assessment study (2010) by the Swiss Foundation for International Cooperation (Intercooperation) broadly confirms that push-pull technology is widely accepted and adopted by small farmers because it addresses their major production constraints. The key drivers of adoption of the technology are control of striga, stemborer, soil erosion, and increase of soil fertility and fodder production. It is these combined benefits, together with the low cost of the technology, that make it highly attractive to farmers. The assessment report concludes that ‘push-pull’ contributes significantly to reducing the vulnerability of farm families by ensuring higher yields and, even more importantly, better yield stability. In addition, the technology seems to be a “springboard” for diversifying the farming system, especially incorporating dairy operations. Increased food security, better income, education of children and health of the family, more knowledge and a higher status in the village are all contributing factors for an overall improved livelihood situation of smallholder farmers. At national scale, the economic, social and environmental impacts of ‘push-pull’ are estimated to be an annual additional gross benefit of US$2-3 Million. Furthermore, as push-pull does not depend on external inputs such as pesticides and mineral fertilizer it is an environmentally friendly technology likely to increase agro-biodiversity and contribute to provision of ecosystem services, the report concludes.