The integrated pest management (IPM) programmes run by the FAO seek to train farmers on how to take independent, well-informed crop production and management decisions, achieved primarily through participatory, season-long field schools. This study examines the social impact of IPM field schools in Mali during the 1999-2000 seasons, as well as considering their influence on improving technical knowledge, changing farming attitudes and behaviour and in simulating increased collective self-help action.

In Africa women farmers are generally responsible for pest management activities. Research has shown that the technological needs and priorities of women farmers differ from those of men, but their specific needs are rarely addressed in the research and development of agricultural technology. Women's access to new technologies is seriously undermined owing to the failure of extension systems to establish contacts with women farmers. The book discusses the gender-related, socio-economic factors that influence the creation, adoption and effective implementation of IPM technologies.