The Kenyan government has introduced a National Pesticide Residue Monitoring Framework (NPRMF) to strengthen pesticide residue surveillance and protect consumers. The framework, developed with technical support from the CABI-led PlantwisePlus programme, aims to establish a structured system for collecting, analysing, and sharing data on pesticide residues in agricultural produce. This move is expected to improve food safety and safeguard Kenya's agricultural markets.
Agriculture Secretary James Wanjohi emphasized the importance of regulating pesticide use, citing Good Agricultural Practices as a guiding principle. He noted that while pesticides are crucial in controlling pests and diseases, their use must be monitored to prevent adverse effects on human health. The framework will provide evidence for food safety decisions and help ensure Kenyan agricultural products meet local and international standards.
The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) estimates that 77 per cent of farmers in Kenya rely on chemical pest control, making pesticide residue testing critical in determining compliance with safety standards. KEPHIS identifies pesticides as a major source of food safety concerns, warning that regular consumption of contaminated food poses health risks. The framework brings together government regulators, public health institutions, laboratories, and private sector players to strengthen coordination across the food production chain.
The development of the framework involved consultations and practical testing with stakeholders across the agricultural sector, starting in 2024. A national writeshop brought together experts to develop the framework, which was piloted in five counties - Kirinyaga, Kiambu, Kajiado, Narok, and Taita Taveta - to assess its practicality and effectiveness. Lessons from the pilot informed the final framework and its implementation procedures.
CABI regional director for Africa Dr Daniel Karanja said the framework was a culmination of collaborative efforts and urged stakeholders to focus on implementation. He emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to build a safer, healthier, and more competitive agricultural sector in Kenya. The framework is expected to strengthen links between institutions responsible for food safety, public health, pesticide regulation, and trade.
The launch of the framework marks an important milestone in addressing pesticide risks, a challenge that requires sustained and coordinated action. CABI scientist Dr Naphis Bitange noted that the collaborative process had strengthened links between institutions, while CABI's Global Lead on Synthetic Pesticides Dr Melanie Bateman emphasized the need for continued action to mitigate pesticide risks.
The Kenyan government's move to tighten pesticide residue monitoring is a significant step towards ensuring food safety and protecting public health. With the framework in place, stakeholders will work together to implement the system, monitor pesticide residues, and promote safe agricultural practices. The framework's success will depend on the continued collaboration and coordination of stakeholders across the agricultural sector.
Key points
- The Kenyan government has launched a National Pesticide Residue Monitoring Framework to improve food safety and protect consumers from pesticide residues in agricultural produce.
