MAKUENI, Kenya — The Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) has seized a consignment of unregistered pesticides in Makueni County during a regulatory inspection targeting illegal agricultural chemicals.
In a statement on Tuesday, the regulator said inspectors from its Coast Region confiscated the products after discovering they were being distributed to fruit farmers within the county.
The board said the pesticides had not been registered under Kenya’s regulatory framework, raising concerns about their safety and effectiveness.
“The sale and use of unauthorized pesticides pose a significant threat to agricultural productivity, public health, and the environment,” PCPB said.
“The efficacy, safety, and quality of such products are unknown, and their use may compromise agricultural performance while posing risks to human health and environmental sustainability.”
Farmers targeted with illegal products
According to the board, the seized pesticides were being supplied to unsuspecting fruit farmers, potentially exposing them to unsafe agricultural chemicals.
PCPB noted that the use of unregistered pesticides could damage crops, contaminate soil and water sources, and pose serious health risks to farm workers and consumers.
Authorities have launched investigations into the matter and said legal action will be taken against individuals or companies found responsible for distributing the illegal products.
“Investigations into the matter are ongoing, and appropriate legal action will be taken against any individuals or entities found culpable,” the board said.
Warning to agro-dealers
The regulator also issued a warning to agro-dealers across the country against trading in unregistered pesticides.
PCPB said selling unapproved pest control products violates Kenya’s regulatory framework governing the importation, distribution, and use of agricultural chemicals.
“Agro-dealers are hereby cautioned against trading in pesticides that have not been registered by the Pest Control Products Board,” the statement said.
The board urged farmers to purchase pesticides only from licensed agro-dealers and to verify that products have been officially approved before use.
Protecting agriculture and public health
Kenya’s pesticide regulation framework requires all pest control products to undergo scientific evaluation and registration before they are allowed into the market.
The process assesses the safety, effectiveness, and environmental impact of agricultural chemicals to ensure they meet national standards.
PCPB said enforcement operations will continue across counties to curb the circulation of illegal pesticides and protect farmers, consumers and the environment.
