The Kenya National Farmers’ Federation (KENAFF) has welcomed the government’s move to phase out the use of harmful pesticides in agriculture, terming it a critical step in improving food safety and protecting the environment. The federation argues that eliminating the use of unsafe chemicals is key to aligning the country’s farming practices with global safety standards and shielding consumers from long-term health hazards.
According to KENAFF, the misuse of hazardous chemicals such as Chlorpyrifos, Dimethoate, Imidacloprid, Mancozeb, and Glyphosate-based products has compromised the safety and quality of food in Kenya. These chemicals have been improperly applied to staple and horticultural crops, leaving behind harmful residues. In addition to posing health risks to consumers, these chemicals degrade soil fertility, pollute water bodies, and harm pollinators, which are essential to food systems.
The federation has raised particular concern over the continued use of unregistered and misapplied chemicals. Dimethoate, for example, is now restricted for use as a termiticide but is still being sprayed on fruits and vegetables. Similarly, Imidacloprid, a chemical known to be highly toxic to bees, is often misused in open-field applications. These practices often result in chemical residues that exceed international safety limits, threatening both local food security and the viability of Kenya’s agricultural exports.
KENAFF is encouraging farmers to adopt Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices and to always seek professional advice before applying pesticides. Farmers are also reminded to read pesticide labels carefully, use proper protective gear, and observe recommended pre-harvest intervals to ensure food safety. The federation emphasizes that the success of the pesticide ban will hinge on consistent enforcement and effective farmer education.
To address the knowledge gap in the sector, KENAFF is also turning to digital tools to provide modern, accessible agricultural extension services. The organization plans to use a combination of traditional methods such as workshops and farmer-to-farmer learning and digital platforms to reach more farmers with timely and enterprise-specific advisory services.
KENAFF is developing a video library accessible online, offering guidance on a range of farming practices including livestock care, crop health, soil management, and environmental conservation. The organization is also investing in mobile apps, USSD codes, and other information and communication technologies (ICTs) to extend its reach. Farmers will be able to access content relevant to the specific crops or livestock they manage.
To implement this vision, the federation is calling for collaboration with national and county governments, as well as private partners. KENAFF believes Kenya must harness technologies, including artificial intelligence, to transform agriculture and keep pace with other countries that are already leveraging digital tools to boost productivity and sustainability.