Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has issued a stern warning to cartels accused of undermining government efforts to eliminate toxic pesticides as part of a nationwide initiative to uphold food safety standards. The CS highlighted that these cartels have actively opposed the government’s recent decision to ban the importation of 50 pesticide brands deemed unsafe for use in the country.
In a statement, Kagwe revealed that over the past two months, these groups have employed illegal tactics, including bribing legislative and regulatory officials, to obstruct the enforcement of stricter pesticide regulations. The cartels have also been accused of manipulating the media to portray the banned agrochemicals in a positive light, thereby attempting to sway public opinion and policy in their favor.
Kagwe emphasized the government’s firm resolve to maintain the ban and strengthen pesticide regulations despite persistent resistance. He noted that those with vested interests in the banned products are determined to push back by using media influence and corrupting members of parliament and other key stakeholders to protect their agenda.
“This is not just a policy issue it is a fight for the health of our people, the integrity of our food systems, and the future of our environment,” the CS stated, underscoring the critical importance of this regulatory crackdown for national wellbeing and sustainability.
The banned pesticides, which Kagwe did not specifically name, were identified through a list provided by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB). These products have also been prohibited in their countries of origin due to their toxic nature. The government’s move to ban these imports is a step towards safeguarding both consumers and the environment from harmful chemical exposure.
In addition to banning the hazardous pesticides, the government plans to support local manufacturers of safer pesticide alternatives. Kagwe announced intentions to promote the production of agrochemicals derived from locally grown pyrethrum, a natural source known for its pest control properties. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on imported chemical pesticides and boost the domestic agricultural inputs industry.
To facilitate this transition, the government is set to increase the area under pyrethrum cultivation from the current 10,000 acres to over 70,000 acres. This expansion is expected not only to provide safer pesticide products but also to stimulate job creation within the agricultural sector, thus contributing to economic growth and rural development.
Kagwe reassured that the government is committed to equipping farmers with the necessary resources to support this expansion, ensuring they benefit from safer pest control options while enhancing productivity. This comprehensive approach reflects a broader strategy to improve food safety, environmental health, and economic opportunities in the agricultural ecosystem.
By halting the importation of 50 hazardous pesticide brands and fostering safer local alternatives, the government aims to protect the health of its citizens, preserve the environment, and strengthen the resilience and sustainability of the country’s agriculture.
