You can use either 8-speed or 9-speed Shimano MTB shifters with your 9-speed DA rear derailleur ...
You MAY need to buy a Shimano MTB front derailleur ... however, the extra click on the MTB shifter which is typically used to move the chain to the 3rd chainring may provide the necessary front derailleur movement you need to move the chain across TWO chainrings when using a Shimano Road front derailleur.