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Paper short abstract:

The continual occurrence of crop pests and diseases each farming season prompts collective action problem and questions. The study analysis how smallholder farmers use collective institutions and platforms to control and prevent crop pests and diseases in farming in Ghana.

Paper long abstract:

Rural farming in developing country context is challenged by varied socio-ecological factors such as crop pest and disease infestation. Smallholder farmers in Ghana are not exempted from these socio-ecological challenges. Various scientific domains and stakeholders have attempted several remedies including integrated pest management. However, the continual occurrence of crop pests and diseases each farming season prompts collective action problem and questions. Until now, it is not clear how farmers use collective institutions and platforms to manage pests and diseases in farming. This study fills the research gap by focusing on smallholder farming practices in Ghana, specifically, the Ada East District. Theories of knowledge, practices, public bad, and collective action is linked to achieve the objective of the research. A combination of qualitative methods: semi-structured interviews, home and field visits, community meetings and workshops, and participant observations were used to derived data. Farmers demonstrated collective knowledge on the causes of pests and diseases with their local knowledge. Each crop pest and disease condition was ascribed a collective local name; yet, farmers had little knowledge about the scientific names and causes. Individuals and farmer groups lead in several ways in managing conditions on the farm. Even so, collective actions are rarely effective due to the breakdown in existing collective platforms such as social networks, institutions, and culture. The study concludes that market forces, ICTs and growing demand for food enhances or obstructs collective actions among farmers leading to the emergence of diverse leadership styles in managing crop pest and diseases.