By Mumo Judah
June 8, 2026
Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has criticized what he termed as international double standards in the regulation of agrochemicals, arguing that pesticides considered unsafe in some countries should not be allowed to find markets in developing nations simply because of weaker regulations or economic disparities.
Speaking during the opening ceremony of the 2026 World Farmers’ Organisation (WFO) General Assembly in Nairobi, Kagwe said farmers in developing countries continue to bear the burden of exposure to highly hazardous chemicals that have already been banned or heavily restricted in many parts of the world.
The Cabinet Secretary said there should be no distinction in safety standards based on geography or economic status, insisting that the health of farmers and consumers should take precedence over commercial interests.
“If a chemical is considered unsafe for human health or the environment in one part of the world, then it should not be sold elsewhere simply because farmers are poorer or regulations are weaker. The safety of our farmers cannot be compromised,” Kagwe said.
He challenged international manufacturers, regulators and governments to harmonize global standards governing agrochemicals and ensure that products deemed harmful are universally phased out.
Kagwe observed that many farmers in Africa and other developing regions continue to rely on chemicals that have long been restricted in Western countries, exposing them to health risks and environmental degradation. He said such disparities undermine efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and food safety.
The CS stressed that food safety and public health begin at the farm level, noting that protecting farmers from harmful substances is critical in ensuring consumer confidence and safeguarding the entire food production chain.
“Our farmers are at the center of food production and must be treated with dignity. Agricultural policies and investments should prioritize their health and welfare rather than profits,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing global debate over the use of pesticides and increasing calls for stricter regulation of hazardous agrochemicals. Environmental and public health organizations have repeatedly raised concerns over the continued export of certain chemicals to developing countries despite restrictions in their countries of origin.
The World Farmers’ Organisation General Assembly, which has brought together agricultural leaders, policymakers and stakeholders from around the world, is focusing on issues including climate change, food security, sustainability and the future of farming.
Kenya has in recent years intensified efforts to promote climate-smart agriculture and strengthen food safety standards as part of broader measures aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and protecting consumers.
Kagwe called on the international community to place the welfare of farmers at the heart of agricultural development and to pursue policies that guarantee safe food systems while preserving the environment for future generations.
He said achieving sustainable food production requires a collective commitment to protecting those who feed the world, adding that no farmer should be forced to choose between earning a livelihood and safeguarding their health.
