Kenyans farmers
are facing major health risks as a
result of exposure to poisonous
chemicals, Bayer East Africa now
says.
According to a study which highlights health risks in the Kenyan agriculture sector, more than 65 per cent of farmers do not have enough protective wear when handling chemicals,fertilisers, and pesticides for crops, thereby exposing them to serious health risks, such as respiratory problems and skin diseases.
The firm has since moved to donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) to the Cereal Growers Association (CGA), in a bid to bolster safety for farmers.
“Safety at Bayer is one of our core values and we are deeply committed to making sure every user of our products has the knowledge and the tools to protect themselves and the environment,” said Bayer’s Agronomy Advisory and Stewardship Lead Smallholder, Nimrod Lucky.
He said among all options, PPE remains one of the most effective ways of minimising exposure risks at the lowest cost.
“This equipment is a show of commitment to developing a responsible, safe, and prosperous farming community, where we do not wish anything to stand in the way of best practice,” Lucky said.
“PPE is one of the easiest ways to reduce exposure risks, but education is just as important. With this partnership, we make sure farmers have not only the protective gear but also the knowledge of how to use it.”
Recent data from the Kenyan Ministry of Agriculture indicates that agrochemical use has increased by 30 per cent over the last five years, further amplifying the need for such interventions.
While the donation of personal protective equipment would be a significant step, it also reflects a greater, systemic problem of limited availability of safety means and training among smallholder farmers.
“Safety in farming is often
overlooked, but it is critical. Many
farmers do not have access to basic
protective equipment, something
that increases their vulnerability. Bayer’s donation is a timely intervention at a time when health concerns
are rising,” Cereal Growers Association CEO, Anthony Kioko, said.
A research done earlier in the
year by Bayer indicated that proper
use of PPE can reduce exposure to
harmful substances by up to 85 per
cent.