Kagwe warns of pesticide cartels as Kenya rallies Africa for safer agriculture

Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has raised concerns over what he described as vested interests working to stall government efforts to reform Kenya’s food systems.

Speaking during the opening of the 2025 CABI Africa Regional Consultation in Nairobi, Kagwe cited a worrying pattern of resistance to reforms, including interference in legislative and regulatory processes and the use of media to influence public perception.

The CS’s remarks stirred conversation among international delegates attending the three-day summit, which seeks to shape a pan-African agenda for safer, sustainable agriculture.

Kagwe reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating harmful agrochemicals, strengthening food safety laws, and equipping farmers with better knowledge and tools.

He warned that commercial interests continue to resist change.

“This is not just a policy issue, it is a fight for the health of our people, the integrity of our food systems, and the future of our environment,” he said.

He pointed to Kenya’s Agricultural Sector Transformation and Growth Strategy as a key framework for advancing climate-smart, inclusive farming and stricter sanitary and phytosanitary compliance to open up global markets.

Kagwe commended the Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International for its role in agricultural development over the past three decades, including efforts to combat fall armyworm and desert locusts, and promoting nature-based solutions such as the National Prosopis Strategy.

“From battling fall armyworm and locusts to pioneering nature-based solutions, CABI has helped anchor agricultural resilience across the continent,” he said.

Amid growing climate-related pest threats and pesticide misuse, the CS urged African nations to align their pesticide regulations, develop joint oversight mechanisms, and enhance farmer education across the region.

“Let us not leave this room with just another communiqué. Let this be a turning point, a moment where political courage meets scientific truth,” Kagwe urged.

He underscored Kenya’s intent to lead through regional efforts such as CAADP and AfCFTA, and emphasised the importance of South-South cooperation in driving shared progress.

The consultation continues until June 13, with delegates expected to develop a roadmap for phasing out harmful pesticides and promoting a resilient, science-based agricultural future for the continent.