Uasin Gishu Hawkers Warned Against Selling Unapproved Pesticides
Residents have also complained that untested and counterfeit pesticides are affecting yields of crops and posing long-term health hazards to consumers.
Uasin Gishu vendors warned against selling illegal pesticides that are not cleared by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB)
By Jessica Nyaboke
Uasin Gishu vendors have been warned against selling illegal pesticides that are not cleared by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB).
Anthony Wechule, speaking to the media outside the Eldoret Law Courts, lamented that the majority of street vendors, commonly referred to as malimali, expose and sell pesticides indiscriminately without even seeking permission. He warned that the practice is dangerous to unsuspecting consumers.
“All types of products are sold by most hawkers, including unapproved pesticides,” Wechule stated. “It is not safe and has to be halted with effect from today.”
The spot check by journalists in Eldoret town revealed that pesticides were being retailed by hawkers from as low as Sh50 to a high of Sh250. Wechule further stated that the products are mostly substandard and unsafe for public use.
It’s incredible to see unauthorized vendors not only peddling these pesticides but also educating their users on how to apply them,” he added. “They have absolutely no idea how these chemicals work, and that puts the consumers at huge risk.”.
Wechule maintained that only licensed agrovets and supermarkets are supposed to sell pesticides in Kenya as the law provides. The stores go through proper screening to ensure that they sell safe and approved products for pest control.
He called on the authorities to step up crackdowns against sales of illicit pesticides in the region. “All people selling pesticides must be screened well,” Wechule said. “The sale of unapproved chemicals on the streets risks lives and makes consumers confused.”
The alert comes against the background of heightened concerns over misuse of farm chemicals in Kenya, which experts say has contributed to contamination of the environment and adverse effects on human health.
Residents have also complained that untested and counterfeit pesticides are affecting yields of crops and posing long-term health hazards to consumers.
Wechule urged the public to purchase pesticides from licensed, certified dealers to ensure they utilize effective and safe products.
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