The Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) has successfully seized counterfeit and unregistered pesticides valued at more than Ksh600,000 during a major operation across Embu, Meru, and Tharaka Nithi counties. This crackdown is part of a nationwide effort aimed at eliminating illegal and harmful pest control products from the Kenyan market.
PCPB officials conducted the operation with the goal of removing unapproved pesticides that could pose serious risks to human health, livestock, and agricultural productivity. These pesticides, which are often sold cheaply, contain toxic chemicals that not only harm the environment but also undermine the safety of food crops. Many of these products are not registered with the appropriate authorities and have not undergone the necessary testing.
Lawrence Kalawa, the General Manager for Compliance and Enforcement at PCPB, expressed concerns about the rising number of counterfeit and smuggled pesticides infiltrating the market. He emphasized that the board is stepping up enforcement efforts during the short rains season, a time when demand for pesticides increases. During this period, dishonest traders often flood the market with substandard products in order to capitalize on high consumer demand.
Kalawa urged farmers to be vigilant and purchase pesticides only from PCPB-registered agro-vet outlets. Genuine products bear official safety stickers, indicating that they have been tested and approved for use. He also warned traders selling unregistered or counterfeit pesticides that they would face severe legal consequences if caught.
PCPB’s crackdown is part of its ongoing commitment to protecting both the environment and consumers from harmful chemicals. The board remains focused on ensuring that only safe, certified pest control products are available in the market, thus safeguarding Kenya’s agricultural sector and public health.
