Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary, Mutahi Kagwe, has announced a ban on more than 50 pesticide brands, particularly those prohibited in their countries of origin.
Speaking in Molo, Nakuru County, Kagwe emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting safer, locally-produced alternatives. As part of this effort, he unveiled an ambitious plan to expand pyrethrum farming from the current 10,000 acres to over 70,000 acres nationwide.
”Boosting pyrethrum farming will not only enhance local pesticide production but also create thousands of jobs for Kenyans,” he said.
Kagwe made the remarks during the official launch of the distribution of one million clean pyrethrum planting materials.
The event was attended by key leaders including the Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, and Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha.
In January 2025, Kagwe underscored the importance of regulating pesticide imports and usage to protect the people of Kenya.
Kagwe’s comments come amid growing concerns about the presence of highly hazardous pesticides in the Kenyan market, many of which are banned in other countries, including those in the European Union.
There has been considerable uproar over the past few years, with studies from Kenyan institutions indicating that a significant portion of pesticides used in the country are harmful and could contribute to illnesses such as cancer and other non-communicable diseases.
