Thousands of farmers in Kirinyaga County have recently undergone training on the safe use of agrochemicals in a concerted effort to reduce the potential negative impacts of chemicals on human health and the environment. This initiative, which was launched through collaboration between the National and County governments, specifically targeted rice farmers from the Mwea Rice Irrigation Scheme, as well as those involved in horticulture, tea, and coffee farming.
The training, led by Governor Anne Waiguru, forms part of the county’s broader strategy to educate farmers on the responsible use of agrochemicals. In particular, the county has focused efforts on reducing the use of chemicals in horticultural crops such as tomatoes and French beans, which are highly susceptible to pesticide use. Governor Waiguru emphasized the rising number of cancer cases in the region and noted that, although the exact cause remains unclear, the county is committed to reducing chemical usage to help address the issue. Along with the safe use of pesticides, the county is also promoting organic farming practices, which have shown promise in enhancing both food safety and agricultural sustainability.
The safe use of agrochemicals involves minimizing risks to human health, the environment, and non-target organisms while ensuring that chemicals are applied effectively to control pests and diseases. The training covered critical aspects such as proper chemical handling, correct product selection, the use of personal protective equipment, and understanding the appropriate waiting periods before harvesting crops after pesticide application. These practices are designed to safeguard the health of farmers, consumers, and the environment, while also improving the quality and safety of agricultural produce.
Dr. John Gachara, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, highlighted the importance of the training initiative, pointing out that the improper use of pesticides has been a major challenge, particularly among smallholder farmers. This issue has led to potential health hazards for both farmers and consumers, which the county aims to address through ongoing education and sensitization. As part of this effort, agricultural extension officers and 112 newly recruited agripreneurs have been trained to help spread the knowledge and ensure farmers adopt safer practices when using agrochemicals.
The initiative is aligned with the county’s broader agricultural agenda, which seeks to empower farmers through knowledge, resources, and sustainable farming techniques. By improving farmers’ practices and introducing safer methods of pest control, the program aims to enhance food safety standards, boost productivity, and increase market access for local farmers. The county’s agricultural landscape, where approximately 80% of the population is involved in farming, stands to benefit significantly from such interventions, improving the health of both the farmers and their customers.
Representatives from local farming associations, including the Mwea Irrigation Water Users Association, have also expressed strong support for the initiative. They acknowledged the importance of the training in ensuring that the produce grown in Kirinyaga County meets both local and international safety standards. The collaboration between farmers and the government is seen as a crucial step in ensuring that food produced for both local consumption and export is safe and of high quality.
Farmers like Julian Wairimu, a youthful farmer from Mwea, have expressed excitement about participating in the campaign, recognizing the long-term benefits of adopting safer practices when handling agrochemicals. The training not only equips farmers with the knowledge to protect themselves but also helps ensure that their produce remains safe for consumers. As the program continues, it is expected to play a pivotal role in improving the overall safety and quality of agricultural produce in the county.
