FRESH PRODUCE FARMERS TRAINED ON SAFE AND EFFECTIVE PESTICIDE USE
In a move to boost agricultural productivity and uphold sustainable farming practices, fresh produce farmers in Thika recently participated in a three-day training program on the safe and effective use of pesticides.
The workshop, organized by the Fresh Produce Consortium of Kenya (FPC Kenya) in collaboration with agricultural experts, aimed to empower farmers with the skills and knowledge to apply pesticides responsibly while safeguarding the environment, human health, and non-target organisms.
Experts emphasized the training’s importance in addressing pesticide residue issues, which have compromised the safety and marketability of Kenyan produce abroad.
Speaking after the 3 days workshop at KarLo Seeds in Kandara,Edward Njer, a pesticide expert, highlighted a widespread lack of training among farmers, noting harmful practices such as spraying crops and harvesting them within a day, leaving behind dangerous chemical residues.
FPC Kenya CEO Okisegere Ojepat announced plans to establish a practical training college to address these challenges. The institution will provide farmers and industry players with hands-on training in best agricultural practices, aiming to enhance the quality and competitiveness of Kenyan fresh produce in global markets.
Horticulture farmers Edward Mburu and Priscilla Muriithi lauded the initiative, stressing its potential to fill the gaps left by county governments, which often lack adequate agricultural extension officers to guide farmers.
Concerns over the excessive use of pesticides and the resulting high maximum residue levels (MRLs) in horticultural produce have tarnished Kenya’s reputation internationally, leading to sanctions and rejection of some exports.
By promoting responsible pesticide use, this initiative seeks to restore confidence in Kenyan fresh produce and secure its place in international markets.
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