Authorities have moved to flush out illegal pest control products from the Kenyan market after targeted inspections in parts of Kajiado and Taita-Taveta counties uncovered widespread violations of the law.
The Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) announced an immediate ban on the sale, distribution and use of unlawful pesticides following enforcement operations in Oloitoktok and several trading centres in Taita-Taveta.
The directive covers products that are not registered with the board, as well as those that are counterfeit, smuggled, expired, repackaged or otherwise non-compliant with the Pest Control Products Act.
In a statement issued after the operation, the board warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found dealing in illegal pest control products.
“Only pest control products registered by PCPB may be imported, distributed, sold, or used in Kenya,” the board said.
The inspections were carried out this week through a joint effort between PCPB officers and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations. Enforcement teams searched agro-dealer shops, farms and retail outlets, leading to the recovery of illegal pest control and public health products.
In Taveta County, the operation covered Madarasani, Challa, Maandakini and Taveta Market. During the inspections, officers seized unapproved pesticides that had been stocked for sale.
Several traders were arrested during the exercise and later arraigned before the Taveta Principal Magistrates’ Court. They face charges linked to the sale and distribution of illegal and unregistered pest control products.
PCPB said the arrests were meant to send a clear message to dealers who continue to ignore the law, noting that illegal pesticides pose serious risks to human health, the environment and agricultural production.
The board reminded agro-dealers that they must operate from premises certified by PCPB and ensure that all products on their shelves are properly registered.
Farmers and pesticide users were also urged to play their part by checking PCPB registration numbers, confirming that labels are written in both English and Kiswahili, and ensuring that products are sourced from licensed Kenyan distributors.
The regulator said similar enforcement actions will be rolled out across the country as part of sustained efforts to clean up the market.
“PCPB will continue to intensify enforcement operations nationwide. Any person found in violation of the law will be subject to arrest, prosecution, and penalties as provided under the Pest Control Products Act,” the statement said.
The latest crackdown highlights rising concern by authorities over the spread of illegal pesticides and signals tougher measures to safeguard public health, the environment and the economy.
