The Kenyan government has announced the immediate withdrawal of 77 pesticide products from the market after a comprehensive review revealed that they contain harmful active ingredients posing significant risks to human health, livestock, crops, and the environment.
Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe made the announcement following the conclusion of a scientific assessment by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB).
“Following scientific assessment and stakeholder consultations, we have identified certain active ingredients and associated end-use products that pose unacceptable risks,” said Kagwe.
In addition to the withdrawn products, the government has also placed restrictions on the use of 202 other pesticides across various crops and announced that 151 products remain under active review, with the process expected to conclude by December 2025. During the review period, the use and importation of these 151 products will remain prohibited.
The review, which covered 430 pesticide formulations currently in use by Kenyan farmers, is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen public health, food safety, and environmental protection in the agricultural sector.
Kagwe also issued a directive to importers, requiring that pest control products be registered in their countries of origin. Furthermore, the registration of pesticides banned under international environmental agreements will no longer be allowed in Kenya.
“Importation of any molecular under review that is not approved in the European Union, the United States, Australia, or Canada shall be prohibited until finalization of the review,” he added.
The move marks a significant step in aligning Kenya’s agricultural practices with global safety standards and protecting consumers, farmers, and ecosystems from the long-term effects of hazardous chemicals.
Written By Rodney Mbua
