Nairobi: Safety, regulation, and responsible use of pesticides were the focal points at the GLOBAL G.A.P. Tourstop 2025 meeting, which convened farmers, government officials, and private sector representatives from the region. Held under the theme ‘Driving the Region’s Agri-food Trade Through Compliance and Product Diversification,’ the meeting addressed vital concerns surrounding pest control products.
According to Kenya News Agency, Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) Chief Executive Officer Fredrick Muchiri clarified the role of Maximum Residue Limits (MRL), explaining that MRL serves as a market standard rather than a safety measure. He emphasized that different regions having varying MRLs does not equate to the poisoning of pesticide users. Muchiri urged governments to protect citizens from pesticide hazards, particularly noting Kenya’s evaluation of non-consumable products to ensure operator and environmental safety.
Muchiri acknowledged the challenges of cross-border trade, specifically at the Kenya-Tanzania border, where Tanzanian pesticide shops supply Kenyan farms. He highlighted increased surveillance, joint enforcement, and collaboration with agencies and border police as measures to reduce illegal inflows. Collaborating with stakeholders like the Agro-Chemical Association of Kenya (AAK) and the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), Muchiri reported a 70 percent reduction in the problem.
However, he noted that interceptions of Kenyan produce in export markets often result from farmers’ failure to adhere to good agricultural practices in pesticide application. Muchiri announced training programs for extension officers to promote responsible pesticide use, aiming to reduce interception incidents.
Regarding counterfeit pesticides and illegal imports, Muchiri discussed ongoing risk assessments and enforcement strategies. He noted that Kenya is the only African country conducting risk assessments in regulatory decision-making processes. The nation possesses the capacity to analyze pesticide formulations and determine pest control product types used on food commodities.
Eric Kimunguyi, CEO of AAK/GROW/Croplife, highlighted the evolving pest control industry, paralleling agricultural advancements. He explained that complexities arise due to new scientific developments, leading to use restrictions and withdrawals. Kimunguyi stressed the importance of data showing that remnants applied to crops remain safe for consumer use, noting that MRLs are primarily about trade requirements.
Kimunguyi pointed out that responsible companies are committed to phasing out highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs), with the country nearing zero HHPs due to sustainable business management frameworks. He highlighted innovations reducing farmer exposure, such as drone use for pesticide application and trained service providers equipped with knowledge and protective gear.
However, Kimunguyi warned against the withdrawal of products by authorities without clear alternatives, as it might drive farmers to source from the black market, resulting in ‘regrettable substitutions.’ Both CEOs emphasized the importance of harmonizing pest control standards within the East African region to curb illegal trade and streamline standards for regional farmers.
The East African Community (EAC) harmonized tool, a Pesticides Management Guidelines, supports frameworks to standardize testing and registration of conventional and bio pesticides across the region, improving farmers’ access to safe, effective, and affordable products. Stakeholders at the meeting agreed that pest control products are crucial to Kenya’s agricultural productivity and exports, as well as the region’s, necessitating strict regulation, diligent stewardship, and farmer education.
Regulatory and industry stakeholders also concurred that balancing food safety, environmental protection, and market access requires science-driven decisions and closer collaboration across borders, value chains, and regulatory systems.