NAIROBI, Kenya – Farmers across the country have been cautioned against using unauthorized pesticides on their crops, with experts highlighting the dangers of improper agrochemical applications.
This warning comes in the wake of a new study revealing that, while over 90% of farmers are compliant with pesticide regulations, there is still a need for vigilance to ensure food safety.
The study, conducted across eight key horticultural counties—Kajiado, Nakuru, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Makueni, Meru, and Taita Taveta—focused on commonly consumed crops such as tomatoes, kale, and onions.
It showed promising results, indicating that farmers are increasingly adhering to the guidelines provided by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB).
However, the presence of some unapproved pesticide residues has raised alarms among agricultural stakeholders.
PCPB’s CEO, Fredrick Muchiri, emphasized the critical importance of following instructions on pesticide labels.
“Any exposure that exceeds acceptable levels means the product cannot be registered for use in the country,” Muchiri stated during the launch of the Baseline Study report.
He urged farmers to ensure they use pesticides only as directed, with instructions readily available in both English and Kiswahili.
Despite the encouraging compliance rates, stakeholders have reiterated the need for farmers to strictly adhere to the approved pesticide list for specific crops.
“The molecules detected during this study are registered by PCPB, apart from a few that were not registered for use on the crop,” noted PCPB Assistant Manager, Grace Muchemi.
The rising incidence of pests and diseases in the country has led to increased pesticide usage, which, if not properly managed, can result in harmful residues in food crops.
This poses significant risks to both human health and the environment.
The Ministry of Agriculture has also weighed in, calling for a collective effort from all stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, to ensure that food handling and transportation processes are up to standard.
“There are complexities associated with the transport of food,” said AAK Grow Chair Eric Kimugunyi. “This responsibility shifts from the producer to the transporter, including those who are selling produce.”
Collins Marangu from the Ministry of Agriculture further emphasized the importance of proper food handling post-harvest.
“We could have food that is very safe on the farm, but the way it is handled from the farm to the consumer can lead to contamination,” he warned.
This warning comes in the wake of a new study revealing that, while over 90% of farmers are compliant with pesticide regulations, there is still a need for vigilance to ensure food safety.
The study, conducted across eight key horticultural counties—Kajiado, Nakuru, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Makueni, Meru, and Taita Taveta—focused on commonly consumed crops such as tomatoes, kale, and onions.
It showed promising results, indicating that farmers are increasingly adhering to the guidelines provided by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB).
However, the presence of some unapproved pesticide residues has raised alarms among agricultural stakeholders.
PCPB’s CEO, Fredrick Muchiri, emphasized the critical importance of following instructions on pesticide labels.
“Any exposure that exceeds acceptable levels means the product cannot be registered for use in the country,” Muchiri stated during the launch of the Baseline Study report.
He urged farmers to ensure they use pesticides only as directed, with instructions readily available in both English and Kiswahili.
Despite the encouraging compliance rates, stakeholders have reiterated the need for farmers to strictly adhere to the approved pesticide list for specific crops.
“The molecules detected during this study are registered by PCPB, apart from a few that were not registered for use on the crop,” noted PCPB Assistant Manager, Grace Muchemi.
The rising incidence of pests and diseases in the country has led to increased pesticide usage, which, if not properly managed, can result in harmful residues in food crops.
This poses significant risks to both human health and the environment.
The Ministry of Agriculture has also weighed in, calling for a collective effort from all stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, to ensure that food handling and transportation processes are up to standard.
“There are complexities associated with the transport of food,” said AAK Grow Chair Eric Kimugunyi. “This responsibility shifts from the producer to the transporter, including those who are selling produce.”
Collins Marangu from the Ministry of Agriculture further emphasized the importance of proper food handling post-harvest.
“We could have food that is very safe on the farm, but the way it is handled from the farm to the consumer can lead to contamination,” he warned.
