Pesticides are often seen as a must-have for growing enough food, helping farmers protect their crops and reduce waste. But while they’re effective at keeping pests away, they come with serious downsides, like health risks and environmental damage. In Kenya, the growing concern over these toxic chemicals has sparked important conversations about whether the trade-off is really worth it.
It’s interesting to look at how this all started. Pesticide use in Kenya dates back to colonial times, when they were mainly used for tea and coffee farming.
Kenya’s agriculture
- Makes up 30% of the GDP
- Employs 40%+ of the population
- 80% of production from smallholder farmers
Fast forward to today—according to official data, agriculture makes up 30% of the GDP and employs more than 40% of the population, with 80% of production coming from smallholder farmers. But despite their massive contribution, the sector heavily relies on synthetic pesticides, while biopesticides remain underused due to concerns about availability and effectiveness.
Here’s where it gets a little frustrating. In the mid-20th century, Kenya was the top producer of pyrethrum, a natural insecticide, supplying more than 70% of the world’s demand, according to Hortfresh Journal. But with the rise of synthetic pesticides, that dominance fizzled out. Recent statistics show Kenya imports about $177 million worth of pesticides annually, mostly from China, India, and Germany. A study by the Route to Food Initiative shows 76% of these pesticides contain highly hazardous chemicals, many of which are banned in other countries.
The use of pesticides in Kenya has sparked growing concerns over their impact on both farmers and consumers. For farmers, frequent exposure to these chemicals—often without proper protective gear—can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory problems, skin disorders, and even long-term conditions like cancer. On the other hand, consumers aren’t off the hook either. Studies show residue from pesticide use makes its way into the food supply, putting people at risk of chronic health problems over time. A recent documentary shed light on just how much these chemicals are affecting food and public health, sparking even more concern.
Kenya pest control products
- 77 banned
- 202 restricted
- 151 under review
In June 2025, the government banned 77 pest control products and restricted 202 others in a crackdown on unsafe agrochemicals. Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development said 151 more products are still under review and can’t be used or imported until the process wraps up, expected by December 2025. But this isn’t without challenges—he also warned of powerful pesticide cartels working to undermine public health reforms.
If all that wasn’t enough, the situation is also hitting Kenya’s exports. Fresh vegetable exports have taken a serious hit due to concerns about pesticide residues. Reduced earnings and export volumes are becoming a real issue. The European Union has flagged problems with maximum residue levels, especially for beans and peas, raising health and safety concerns.
