Editorial
Experts have called for tougher laws to control highly hazardous pesticides in Uganda, warning that weak enforcement, poor laboratory testing and limited safety information are putting consumers and farmers at risk.
Speaking at a National Dialogue on phasing out hazardous pesticides in Kampala, Dr David Kabanda of the Centre for Food and Adequate Living Rights Uganda said Africa must not be treated as a dumping ground for dangerous chemicals.
He cited a 2019 Makerere University study which reportedly found that 86& of food sampled in major markets had pesticide residues.
Kabanda wants labels translated into local languages and threatened legal action against producers and importers of the chemicals.
Health experts also warned the pesticides can damage vital organs and harm pregnant women and unborn babies.
At the event, Luwero Woman MP Brenda Nabukenya launched the National Joint Agroecology Strategy on Ending Highly Hazardous Pesticides, promising Parliament’s support.