NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya’s agricultural sector is undergoing a significant shift as Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mutahi Kagwe announced the withdrawal of 77 end-use pesticide products from the Kenyan market, citing pressing safety concerns.
In a statement released Monday 23, June 2025, CS Kagwe explained that the decision stems from a comprehensive review of pesticides currently registered in Kenya. This initiative was driven by the imperative to ensure all Pest Control Products (PCPs) are safe for both human health and the environment.
The review, conducted by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB), scrutinized 430 products. This rigorous examination uncovered certain products posing unacceptable risks to human health, crops, livestock, and the environment.
Consequently, 202 products now face restricted use on various crops, while another 151 products remain under active review by the PCPB, with a definitive decision on their approval anticipated by December 2025.
“We have taken decisive regulatory action to withdraw 77 end-use products from the Kenyan market and to restrict the use of 202 products on various crops,” said Kagwe.
Among the notably banned products are DDT (Dichlorodiphenyl Trichloroethane), historically common for agricultural use; chlordane, an insecticide; ethylene dichloride, a fumigant; and alachlor, a herbicide.
Furthermore, specific active ingredients, including acephate, chlorothalonil, pymetrozine, thiacloropid, diuron, POE tallow amine, kasugamycin, and pyridalyl, along with their associated end-use products, have been completely removed from the Kenyan market.
The Ministry has also mandated that all PCP products seeking registration in Kenya must first be registered in their country of origin, a measure designed to enhance public safety. Additionally, internationally banned PCPs will not be registered for use in Kenya.
The importation of any molecule currently under review that lacks approval in the European Union, the United States of America, Australia, and Canada is now prohibited until the review process is finalized.
Farmers and distributors across the nation are urged to fully comply with these new regulations to ensure the safety of all Kenyans.
“This action is part of our continuous efforts to align Kenya’s agricultural practices with international best standards, ensure food safety for all Kenyans, and promote sustainable agriculture,” CS Kagwe added, underscoring the long-term vision behind these critical reforms.
