Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, has announced a nationwide ban on over 50 harmful pesticide brands. The banned products, many of which are already prohibited in their countries of origin, have raised serious concerns over their impact on both human health and the environment.

Speaking during an official function in Molo, Nakuru County, CS Kagwe emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to promoting safer and more sustainable agricultural practices. Central to this new approach is the promotion of locally-produced bio-pesticides, with a renewed focus on expanding pyrethrum farming across the country.

“To reduce our reliance on imported chemical pesticides, we are investing heavily in the revival of pyrethrum farming. This not only ensures safer pest control but also offers thousands of job opportunities for Kenyans,” said Kagwe.

The Cabinet Secretary revealed that the government plans to increase the acreage under pyrethrum cultivation from the current 10,000 acres to over 70,000 acres nationwide. This is part of a broader strategy to reposition Kenya as a global leader in the production of natural pesticides.

Kagwe made the remarks during the launch of the distribution of one million clean pyrethrum planting materials, a key step in the crop’s revival. The event attracted key national and regional leaders, including the Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, and Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha, who all pledged their support for the initiative.

The crackdown on toxic pesticides and the renewed focus on pyrethrum farming underscore the government’s commitment to health, job creation, and sustainable agriculture.