Kenya Bans 77 Harmful Pesticides in Sweeping Agricultural Reform

By Samuel Ouma

The Kenyan government has taken a bold step to protect public health and the environment by banning 77 harmful pesticide products from the market.

The move, announced on Monday, June 23, 2025, by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, follows a comprehensive review of all pesticide-active ingredients currently registered for use in the country.

The review, conducted by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB), examined 430 end-use products using scientific data provided by manufacturers, as well as decisions from reputable international regulatory agencies.

According to a statement from the Ministry, the findings revealed that several active ingredients and their associated products pose unacceptable risks to human health, crops, livestock, and the environment.

As a result of the findings, 77 pesticide products have been completely withdrawn from the Kenyan market. In addition, 202 other products have been restricted for use on specific crops. A further 151 products are currently under review, and the Ministry has suspended their use and importation until a final decision is made by December 2025.

To support and strengthen pesticide regulation, the Ministry has reviewed and updated the Draft Pest Control Products Bill. The bill, which has already been approved by the Cabinet and will soon be tabled in Parliament, introduces more stringent controls.

It bars the registration of pest control products that are not registered in their countries of origin, those banned under international environmental agreements, and those with molecules not approved in the European Union, United States, Australia, or Canada.

These measures are part of a broader effort to align Kenya’s agricultural practices with global safety standards, ensure food security, and promote sustainable farming methods. The Ministry noted its continued commitment to supporting farmers during this transition through education, extension services, and the promotion of integrated pest management (IPM) practices.

“This is not just about removing harmful products. It’s about building a future where food production is safe, sustainable, and in harmony with the environment.”

The Ministry has urged all stakeholders, including farmers and pesticide distributors, to fully comply with the new regulations and adopt safer pest control alternatives. The move signals a new chapter in Kenya’s commitment to public health, environmental protection, and sustainable agriculture.