The government has banned 77 pesticide products and restricted the use of 202 others in a wide-reaching regulatory move aimed at safeguarding public health, agriculture, and the environment.

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe announced the decision on Monday, stating that the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development had completed a comprehensive review of pesticide products registered for use in the country.

“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.

The review was conducted by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB), the government agency mandated to ensure the safety of pesticides.

According to Kagwe, the board reviewed 430 end-use products using both scientific data submitted by applicants and findings from international regulatory bodies.

In addition to the banned and restricted pesticides, another 151 products remain under review and are currently prohibited from use or importation. A final decision on their status is expected by December 2025.

As part of broader reforms, Kagwe said the government has introduced new regulatory measures to raise safety standards in the pesticide sector.

Going forward, all pest control products considered for registration in Kenya must also be registered in their country of origin.

Products banned under international environmental agreements will no longer be eligible for registration in Kenya.

“Further, the importation of any pesticide molecule currently under review, and not approved for use in the European Union, the United States, Australia, or Canada, will be prohibited until the review process is completed," he said.

Kagwe also announced that the ministry has finalized a Draft Pest Control Products Bill aimed at strengthening pesticide regulation. The bill has been approved by the Cabinet and will soon be presented to Parliament.

He said the reforms are part of ongoing efforts to align Kenya’s agricultural practices with international safety standards, ensure food safety, and promote sustainable farming.

“We urge all farmers, distributors, and stakeholders to comply fully with these new regulations and to adopt safe, effective, and environmentally friendly pest management alternatives,” he said.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting farmers through education, extension services, and the promotion of integrated pest management practices.