A Economic Importance of Farm-level Burchid Control in stored Dry Beans and Cowpeas in Uganda

Abstract

The damage bruchids cause to beans and cowpeas as major vegetable sources of protein is of considerable significance as protein shortage is acute in the diets of many Ugandans. Use of post-harvest techniques that would allow beans and cowpeas to be stored free of bruchids would reduce loss of these sources of protein, enhance their shelf life, improve food quality and seed viability and ultimately increase rural incomes and food security. This research explored financial consequences of effects of alternative farm-level bruchid control measures in stored dry beans and cowpeas in Iganga and Kumi districts of Uganda during the 1997-1999 period using partial budgeting and dominance analysis techniques. Results showed that actellic, wood ashes, solar heat and leaf powders of tobacco and tephrosia were economically viable post-harvest protectants of dry beans and /or cowpeas for at least 3 months in farm storage. Tobacco was the most profitable treatment on beans and tephrosia was the most profitable treatment on cowpeas. Additional economic benefits were realised either as a result of higher returns from increased marketable and sowable surplus or the low cost of grain protection. The analysis scheme outlined in this study that links partial budget and dominance evaluation techniques is a useful tool for future determination of the best post-harvest interventions to control bruchids.