Implement team's proposals to rid Kenya of toxic pesticides

Pests Control Products Board officials scrutinize some of the pesticides sold in Kisii town on November 24, 2022. [Sammy Omingo, Standard]

The July 10, 2023, circular by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) reviewing the status of some active ingredients of selected pesticides, considered highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs), is a positive stride and needs to be lauded by every citizen who prioritises food safety in Kenya. However, the number of active ingredients reviewed by PCBB is far below expectations, considering the high number of products in the market that are highly hazardous.

Since its release, the circular has created a lot of interest among the Kenyans, media and scientists. Call to action efforts have been directed toward restriction, removal or ban of most toxic pesticides and HHPs as one of strategies among others that are meant to reduce accidental poisoning through stringent regulatory control, awareness raising, training, use of protective clothes and better application of pesticides.