The Poison in Our Food: How Banned Pesticides Reach Kenyan Farms

Kenya faces a silent threat in its agricultural sector. While many pesticides have been banned in Europe due to their carcinogenic and reproductive toxicity, thousands of tons of these dangerous chemicals are still being exported to African countries, including Kenya.

Drone spraying pesticide

A recent report by a Swiss-based organization reveals that the European Union continues to ship over 400 tonnes of banned pesticides to African nations, with Kenya among the major recipients. These chemicals, outlawed at home for public safety, are now entering Kenyan markets and farms, posing serious risks to human health and the environment.

⚠ What Are These Pesticides?

Some of the most harmful banned pesticides imported into Kenya include:

• Chlordane – insecticide

• 2,4,5-T (2,4,5-Trichlorophenoxybutyric acid) – herbicide

• DDT (Dichlorodiphenyl Trichloroethane) – insecticide

• Endrin – insecticide

• Ethylene dibromide (EDB)—soil fumigant

• Chlorothalonil – fungicide

• Imidacloprid – insecticide

• Mancozeb – fungicide

These chemicals have been linked to cancer, hormonal disruption, and reproductive harm, yet they continue to appear in our food chain.

⚠ How Much Is Entering the Country?

Some of the reported imports into Kenya include:

Pesticide	Quantity (kg)
1,3-dichloropropene	200,000
Chlorothalonil	473,924
Mancozeb	73,000
Thiamethoxam	66,200
Imidacloprid	21,084
Glufosinate	27,384

These are just the tip of the iceberg, with many other toxic chemicals also being shipped.

⚠ Why This Matters

The widespread use of these pesticides in agriculture can lead to:

• Contaminated crops and produce

• Long-term health risks for farmers and consumers

• Soil and water pollution

• Bioaccumulation of toxins in the food chain

✅ What Can Be Done

Farmers, regulators, and consumers need to work together to protect food safety:

1. Advocate for stricter import regulations—banned chemicals should not enter Kenyan markets.

2. Promote organic and natural pest control methods—use safer alternatives like neem oil, beneficial insects, and crop rotation.

3. Raise awareness among farmers—educate about the dangers of toxic pesticides and safe handling practices.

4. Monitor and test produce regularly to ensure that crops meet international safety standards.

Kenya’s agricultural ambitions, including pushing towards First-World status, must also prioritize the health of its people and the sustainability of its land. The fight against harmful pesticides is not just about regulation—it’s about safeguarding the future of our food and farms.