Pest Control Products Board

Sensitization efforts will also be extended to farmers, users,  retail outlets and fresh produce value chain actors to promote responsible pesticide use and strengthen chemical safety awareness across the supply chain. The engagement provides a platform to strengthen collaboration, align Kenya’s regulatory framework with global best practices, and enhance awareness on chemical safety communication across the value chain.

The Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) is critical in ensuring chemicals are properly classified and clearly labelled to communicate potential hazards to users. By standardizing how chemical hazards are identified and communicated, GHS plays a key role in protecting human health, safeguarding the environment, and promoting the safe handling, storage, transport, and use of chemicals across sectors. It also enhances regulatory compliance and supports international trade by aligning Kenya’s chemical safety standards with global best practices. Today, Pest Control Products Board  and key stakeholders convened at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development to deliberate on the implementation and regulatory status of GHS in Kenya. The meeting provided an important platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strengthening coordinated efforts towards effective chemicals management in the country.

Pest Control Products Board highlighted the development of Kenya’s GHS guidelines in 2016 based on the Purple Book, and the subsequent review and approval of regulations in 2024 to align chemical labelling and packaging requirements with GHS standards. The agrochemical industry and the PCPB technical team have already been sensitized, and a GHS-aligned labelling template has been developed and adopted by industry players. Going forward as of October 2025, all new product registrations  are required to fully comply with GHS requirements, while already registered products will transition to compliance during their renewal period. This transition is expected to be fully achieved within the next four years. In addition, applications for product registration will be required to meet GHS standards, with continued post-registration surveillance to ensure compliance, quality assurance, and proper disposal.

The Agricultural Society of Kenya Shows continue to serve as a key platform for advancing agricultural knowledge, innovation, and trade across the country. The recently concluded Embu National ASK Show, held in Embu County under the theme “Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth,” brought together farmers, agribusiness players, and other stakeholders to showcase technologies and share practical solutions aimed at improving agricultural productivity and sustainability. At the exhibition, the Pest Control Products Board engaged farmers directly, providing practical guidance on pest management and the responsible use of pest control products. The key areas covered included: ✅ Integrated Pest Management (IPM) ✅ Proper sourcing of pest control products from authorized outlets ✅ Confirming pesticide registration status by visiting the PCPB website pcpb.go.ke ✅ The importance of reading and following pesticide labels ✅ Safe handling, storage, transportation, and application of pesticides ✅ Observing the Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI) period ✅ Proper disposal of pesticide waste to prevent risks to human health and the environment. Through the exhibition, PCPB emphasized the importance of responsible use of pest control products as a critical step toward enhancing agricultural productivity, protecting human health, and safeguarding the environment.

PCPB Coast Region in conjunction with officers from @DCI in an enforcement operation last week seized a consignment of smuggled and unregistered pesticides from large scale tomato farmers in Taveta Sub County along the Kenya Tanzania border. The products which have been illegally imported and distributed pose serious risks to human health, the environment, and Kenya’s agricultural exports. PCPB reminds farmers, agro-dealers and distributors that only registered pest control products approved by the Board should be imported, sold, or used in Kenya. The list of registered pest control products can be accessed through our website pcpb.go.ke

The Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) continues to promote the responsible use of pesticides by building the capacity of Spray Service Providers (SSPs). Trained SSPs are key to effective pest management, reduction of operator exposure, safeguarding of food safety, and environmental protection. As part of this effort, the PCPB North Rift Regional Office facilitated a two-day training for SSPs drawn from Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, and Uasin Gishu Counties on 12th–13th March 2026 in Matunda town. The training was conducted in collaboration with the Micro Enterprise Support Programme Trust (MESPT). During the training, participants were equipped with knowledge and practical skills in several key areas, including: ✅ The Spray Service Provider (SSP) Concept ✅ The Role of PCPB and Statutory Controls ✅ GHS Classification and Labelling of Pest Control Products ✅ Identification of Illegal Pesticides ✅ Selection and Proper Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ✅ Safe and Effective Application of Pesticides ✅ Use and Maintenance of Spraying Equipment ✅ Safe Disposal of Empty Containers Through such capacity-building initiatives, PCPB continues to advance the responsible use of pesticides while supporting sustainable and safe agricultural production across Kenya.

At the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB), protecting the environment goes beyond ensuring the use of registered pesticides and the safe disposal of empty pesticide containers. We are committed to initiatives that restore and conserve nature, promote sustainable farming, and empower local communities. On 13th March 2026 in Tharaka Nithi County, PCPB spearheaded a tree-growing initiative at the Meru South Cooperative Union where staff, together with local farmers, planted 6,000 coffee seedlings of the Ruiru 11 variety donated by the Board. This coffee variety is especially valued for its disease resistance, early maturity, and higher yields, making it ideal for improving productivity and resilience among local farmers. This tree-growing initiative contributes to the Presidential directive to grow 15 billion trees by 2032, reinforcing PCPB’s commitment to a greener, healthier, and more sustainable Kenya for future generations.

Following the successful sensitization of youth avocado farmers in Elgeyo-Marakwet County by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB), the initiative has continued to expand its reach, empowering more young farmers across the region. On 13th March 2026, PCPB, in collaboration with Tupande from One Acre Fund, the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), the Agriculture and Food Authority – Horticultural Crops Directorate (AFA-HCD), and the County Government of Uasin Gishu, conducted a one-day training for youth avocado farmers at Sirikwa Hotel in Eldoret. The training focused on pest and disease management in avocado from production to post-harvest stages, safe handling and responsible use of pesticides, and proper disposal of empty pesticide containers. A total of 120 women and youth avocado farmers from the six constituencies of Uasin Gishu County attended the training, which forms part of ongoing efforts to equip farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to produce safe, high-quality avocados while protecting human health and the environment.

Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) – North Rift Regional Office participated as an exhibitor at the Uasin Gishu and Nandi County edition of the Nyeri International Coffee Expo (NICE) 2026, a national platform dedicated to coffee farmer education and industry engagement. During the engagement, PCPB trained coffee farmers and the key stakeholders present on the responsible management of pests and diseases in coffee farming to achieve high-quality and increased coffee production while safeguarding human health and the environment. The topics covered included: ✅ PCPB’s mandate in regulating pest control products in Kenya. ✅ Responsible use of pest control products in coffee farming. ✅ Safe handling, storage, and proper disposal of empty pesticide containers. ✅ Selection and proper use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when handling pesticides. ✅ Strengthening collaboration with farmer organizations, agrochemical industry players, and county governments. The Nyeri International Coffee Expo (NICE) is a national platform that brings together farmers, industry players, government institutions, and other stakeholders to share knowledge on Good Agricultural Practices, emerging technologies, and market opportunities in the coffee value chain. In 2026, the Expo expanded through a series of nine Coffee Farmers’ Open Day events targeting 9,000–12,000 farmers across key coffee-growing regions, providing a platform for learning, networking, and industry engagement.

Building the capacity of agro-dealers is critical in ensuring farmers access safe, quality, and compliant agricultural inputs while promoting responsible pest management practices. The Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) North Rift Regional Office, in collaboration with aak GROW/CropLife Kenya, trained agro-dealers under the Herbicide Campaign in Moi’s Bridge, Uasin Gishu County, to promote responsible handling and sale of pest control products ahead of the maize planting season, a key staple and economic crop in the region. During the training held on 12th March 2026 at Goldenpine Hotel, 40 agro-dealers from Moi’s Bridge, Matunda, Nangili, and Furfurial trading centres were sensitized on verification of registered products, label interpretation, observance of pre-harvest and re-entry intervals, use of appropriate PPE, safe handling and disposal, and how to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Agro-dealers are urged to uphold these standards, stock only registered products, and guide farmers on proper use to ensure safe food production and consumer protection.

Properly trained agro-dealers, can become credible sources of technical advice, ensuring that farmers receive accurate usage instructions. This promotes good agricultural practices and safeguards food safety. Training them is also key to curbing the sale of illegal products and stemming misuse of pesticides. Towards this end, PCPB Nairobi region organized a 2 day agro-dealer training in Kajiado Town at ACK Guest House on 11th-12th March. The training equipped the agro-dealers with knowledge on IPM, pesticide classification, toxicity, PCPB regulations, label interpretation, how to identify & avoid illegal products, and proper disposal. The capacity building will enhance the quality of advisory services rendered to farmers in the region. This will foster effective pest management and responsible use of pesticides.

Consumer protection remains a fundamental pillar in safeguarding public health, promoting fair trade practices, and ensuring that products available in the market meet the required safety and quality standards. In a Joint Consumer Protection Stakeholders Forum organized by the Retail Trade Association of Kenya (RETRAK) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health Kenya and the Kenya Consumer Protection Advisory Committee (KECOPAC) The Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) affirmed its role in regulation of pest control products to ensure that only registered, safe, and effective pesticides are available in the market.The Board also emphasized its mandate in market surveillance, enforcement, and public awareness to protect consumers from illegal pesticides, while supporting integrated pest management. The forum that took place at PrideInn Azure Hotel Nairobi, further underscored the importance of consumer awareness in promoting safety in the marketplace. Consumers are encouraged to carefully read and follow label instructions, verify that products are purchased from licensed outlets, and request to see the necessary licences from dealers before making purchases. Such actions empower consumers to make informed decisions and play a critical role in protecting public health and preventing the circulation of unsafe products.

With avocado farming poised to become one of Kenya’s key export value chains, the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) has stepped up efforts to equip farmers with knowledge on effective pest and disease management. This initiative aims to boost production while ensuring that avocados meet local and international quality and safety standards. To advance this goal, PCPB organized a one-day sensitization training for youth engaged in avocado farming in Elgeyo-Marakwet County. The training was held on 5th March 2026 at Kerio Valley View Hotel in Iten, where participants were trained on key aspects of avocado production, including pest and disease management across the value chain, safe handling and responsible use of pesticides, proper disposal of empty pesticide containers, and compliance with regulatory requirements governing pest control products. A total of 70 youths participated in the training, which was graced by the Elgeyo-Marakwet County CEC for Agriculture. The CEC highlighted the importance of equipping young farmers with knowledge and skills that promote sustainable and compliant agricultural practices. This training was conducted in partnership with Tupande from One Acre Fund, the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), and the Agriculture and Food Authority – Horticultural Crops Directorate (AFA-HCD).

Empowering farmers with the right knowledge is essential in promoting safe and sustainable pest management practices. The Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) Mt. Kenya Region took part in the Faida Coffee Expo held on 6th March 2026, where officers educated coffee farmers and other stakeholders on responsible pest control practices within the coffee value chain. During the engagement, participants were sensitized on the importance of adopting Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, sourcing pest control products exclusively from PCPB-certified agro-dealers, reading label instructions, adherence to pre-harvest intervals (PHI), and the safe disposal of empty pesticide containers. Farmers and stakeholders are encouraged to embrace these practices and remain vigilant when sourcing and using pest control products, as compliance is essential in protecting public health, preserving the environment, and maintaining the integrity and market value of Kenyan coffee.

The sale and use of unauthorized pesticides pose a significant threat to agricultural productivity, public health, and the environment. The efficacy, safety, and quality of such products are unknown, and their use may therefore compromise agricultural performance while posing risks to human health and environmental sustainability. During routine regulatory inspections and product certification exercise in Makueni County, inspectors from the Pest Control Products Board, Coast Region seized a consignment of unregistered pesticides that were being distributed to unsuspecting fruit farmers within the county. Investigations into the matter are ongoing, and appropriate legal action will be taken against any individuals or entities found culpable. Agro-dealers are hereby cautioned against trading in pesticides that have not been registered by the Pest Control Products Board, as this constitutes a violation of the regulatory framework governing pest control products in Kenya.

Empowering farmers with the right knowledge is essential in promoting safe and sustainable pest management practices. The Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) Mt. Kenya Region took part in the Faida Coffee Expo held on 6th March 2026, where officers educated coffee farmers and other stakeholders on responsible pest control practices within the coffee value chain. During the engagement, participants were sensitized on the importance of adopting Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies, sourcing pest control products exclusively from PCPB-certified agro-dealers, reading label instructions, adherence to pre-harvest intervals (PHI), and the safe disposal of empty pesticide containers. Farmers and stakeholders are encouraged to embrace these practices and remain vigilant when sourcing and using pest control products, as compliance is essential in protecting public health, preserving the environment, and maintaining the integrity and market value of Kenyan coffee.

The Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) Shows, renowned as the country’s most important agricultural exhibitions, provides a platform for farmers across Kenya to learn, exchange ideas, and access the latest innovations in farming. The recently concluded Eldoret National ASK Show, held from 3rd to 8th March 2026 in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, under the theme “Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth,” marked the first ASK Show of 2026. At the exhibition, the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) North Rift Regional Office engaged farmers directly, providing practical guidance on pest management and the responsible use of pest control products. The key areas covered included: ✅ Integrated Pest Management (IPM) ✅ Proper sourcing of pest control products from authorized outlets ✅ Confirming pesticide registration status by visiting the PCPB website pcpb.go.ke ✅ The importance of reading and following pesticide labels ✅ Safe handling, storage, transportation, and application of pesticides ✅ Observing the Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI) period for food safety. ✅ Proper disposal of empty pesticide containers to prevent risks on human health and the environment Through the exhibition, the Pest Control Products Board emphasized the importance of responsible use of pest control products as a critical step toward enhancing agricultural productivity, protecting human health, and safeguarding the environment.

To provide practical knowledge to farmers and other stakeholders at the grassroots level, the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) Mt. Kenya Region took part in the Kamweti Farmers Field Day held on 6th and 7th March 2026 to create awareness on the responsible handling and use of pest control products. At the event, PCPB trained farmers on proper sourcing of pesticides from authorized outlets, how to identify registered pesticides by visiting pcpb.go.ke, the importance of reading and following label instructions, observing PHI intervals, using the appropriate PPE, and the proper disposal of empty pesticide containers. The field day provided an opportunity for the Board to interact with participants, respond to public inquiries, and strengthen collaboration with key stakeholders in the agricultural sector in support of increased agricultural productivity while protecting human health and the environment.

We continue to warn traders, transporters, and members of the public that dealing in unregistered pest control products is an offence under the Pest Control Products Act, Cap 346 of the Laws of Kenya. On 2nd March 2026, during routine transit inspections, officers of the Pest Control Products Board intercepted a consignment of mosquito control products being transported from Kampala to Nairobi (Rongai) aboard a BUSCAR East Africa bus. The consignment included UNO Insecticide Paper and Posters and UNO Skin-Applied Mosquito Repellent Petroleum Jelly. These products are not registered for use in Kenya, and their safety, quality, and efficacy have not been assessed or approved by the Board. Appropriate enforcement measures are being undertaken in accordance with the law.

In efforts to build a strong, informed and empowered farming community in the country, the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB) sensitized farmers and the general public during the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) Open Week IV exhibitions held on 27th and 28th February 2026 at KALRO Kabete (NARL) and KALRO Embu Grounds Respectively. The exhibitions, themed “Research to Markets: Scaling Agricultural Technologies for Inclusive Growth,” provided a platform for farmers and the public to learn about agricultural innovations and best practices that support productivity and sustainability. During the event, PCPB educated participants on the importance of sourcing pest control products from authorized outlets, verifying product registration status, and adhering to label instructions. Farmers were guided on correct dosage, safe handling practices, use of protective gear, and compliance with Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI) requirements to minimize pesticide residues in food crops. Participants were also trained on how to identify and avoid illegal or counterfeit pesticides by checking registration numbers, proper labeling, intact seals, and authentic packaging. They were further guided on accessing the list of registered pest control products through the official PCPB website (pcpb.go.ke⁠�) to support informed purchasing decisions. PCPB remains committed to bridging knowledge gaps among farmers and the public on the responsible use of pest control products. Through continuous education and awareness creation, the Board aims to promote agricultural productivity while safeguarding human health and protecting the environment.