Gov't bans 77 harmful farm chemicals

The government has banned 77 types of pesticides from the Kenyan market and restricted the use of over 200 others to protect farmers, consumers, and the environment.

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the banned chemicals were found to be dangerous after a deep scientific review.

The review was done by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB), the agency that checks whether farm chemicals are safe.

"Some of these pesticides can harm your health, pollute water and soil, or even damage crops and animals," said Mr Kagwe in a statement.

Among the restricted chemicals are some commonly used by small-scale farmers, like 2,4-D Amine, Abamectin, Imidacloprid, and Dimethoate. These can now only be used on certain crops or in closed areas like greenhouses--not in open fields or on food crops.

The Ministry also stopped the use of 151 other chemicals while it finishes reviewing them by December 2025. Farmers are advised not to buy or use these products until further notice.

Mr Kagwe also said Kenya will no longer allow any pesticides that have been banned in countries like the USA, European Union, Australia, or Canada.

To support farmers, the Ministry promised to provide more education, training, and advice through agricultural extension services. 

Farmers have been encouraged to use safer, environmentally friendly options such as integrated pest management (IPM), which includes using natural pest control methods, and rotating crops.

“Please work with agricultural officers near you to know which products are now banned or restricted,” said Mr Kagwe. 

“We are doing this to keep you, your families, and your farms safe.”

A new law to better regulate pesticides in Kenya has also been approved by the Cabinet and will soon be discussed in Parliament.