Kagwe's warning shot to cartels over banned pesticides

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe at CABI meeting on June 11, 2025

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has issued a warning to cartels attempting to undermine government efforts to remove toxic pesticides from the market.

 The warning follows the Ministry's recent ban on 50 brands of fertilisers.

Speaking at the 2025 Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI) Africa Regional Consultation meeting, Kagwe accused cartels of interfering through various means.

 “We are aware that banned pesticide cartels are fighting back—through bribery of legislative and regulatory bodies, infiltration of government institutions, and the sponsorship of media articles to undermine public health reforms,” said Kagwe.

Kagwe noted that the battle against harmful agrochemicals is being hampered by powerful interests determined to maintain control over a lucrative but dangerous trade.

“Expect resistance. Those determined to produce and distribute unregulated, dangerous pesticides will fight back. And when they do, they don’t fight fair,” he said.

He cautioned against complacency and urged stakeholders and the public to remain vigilant.

"Let’s not bury our heads in the sand like ostriches—this threat is real, and it is severe," he warned.

His statement comes amid renewed calls for regional cooperation through initiatives like the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The initiatives aim to tackle pesticide risks, environmental degradation, and crop losses due to pests.

Kagwe reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening pesticide regulations, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and empowering farmers through education and innovation.

However, he emphasised that entrenched commercial interests are obstructing progress.

"This is not just a policy issue—it is a fight for the health of our people, the integrity of our food systems, and the future of our environment," he said.

Citing Kenya’s Agricultural Sector Transformation and Growth Strategy (ASTGS), Kagwe reiterated the country’s focus on climate-smart, inclusive farming, improved market access through sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) compliance, and stricter enforcement of food safety laws.

He urged African nations to unite in support of harmonised pesticide governance, farmer education, and shared regulatory frameworks.

 "Let us not leave this room with just another communiqué. Let this be a turning point—a moment where political courage meets scientific truth," Kagwe challenged attendees.

The CABI Africa Regional Consultation convenes policymakers, scientists, and development partners to establish a continent-wide approach to safer, climate-smart agriculture.

Over the three-day meeting, stakeholders are expected to draft a regional roadmap for safe pesticide use, sustainable agriculture, and a resilient African food future, addressing the rising threats posed by climate-driven pest dynamics and confronting the vested interests profiting from unsafe agrochemical trade.