Drivers of Adoption of Sustainable Prickly Pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) Innovations and Conservation Agriculture by Smallholder Farmers in Morocco

Climate change poses significant challenges for countries in Northern Africa such as
Morocco. Smallholder farmers are especially vulnerable to climate change because they experience
several challenges in the adoption of climate-resilient practices. The sustainable and well-managed
cultivation of the cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) could contribute to conservation agriculture (CA)
in dry climates threatened by climate change. Due to its high-water-use efficiency and ability to
withstand extremely dry conditions, the cactus pear is increasingly being recognised as a more
sustainable alternative to traditional livestock foraging in dryland areas. Compared to many other
common crops and fodder, the cactus pear is easy to establish, maintain, and has a wealth of uses. Two
innovative cultivation techniques are being developed: (1) the use of mixed inoculum formulations
containing AMF (Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi) and PGPB (Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria) in
the soil; and (2) intercropping between perennial (cactus pear) and short-term species (field crops).
We propose to identify factors that could facilitate farmers’ innovation adoption. We conducted
face-to-face interviews with 24 smallholder cactus pear farmers in Morocco. We concluded that
farmers do not yet have a comprehensive understanding of the principles of the innovations. The
main aim of farmers was to increase production and income. Farmers, in general, pay little attention
to the environment. The recommendations that are given in relation to these issues are that training
and social networks are essential in innovation transfer, adoption needs to be facilitated by providing
resources, an innovation transfer needs to be adapted to the current and future needs of farmers, and
we need patience so that farmers can slowly learn the innovations.