Uganda Still Allows EU-Banned Toxic Pesticides – Experts Warn

The Urgent Need to Address Pacterial and Chemical Risks in Uganda

Experts are calling on the Ugandan government to take immediate action to phase out highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs) and implement stricter regulations to safeguard public health, food safety, and the environment. These chemicals, which are banned in the European Union, continue to be imported into Uganda, creating a significant risk for both people and the ecosystem.

Professor Wenzel Geissler, an AnthEM Principal Investigator at the University of Oslo, emphasized that the safest approach to pesticide use is to avoid it altogether. He pointed out that many of these harmful chemicals have been abandoned in Europe but are still being exported to African markets, exposing local communities to dangerous residues. "If we don’t act, we could face serious health consequences," he said.

Geissler also stressed the importance of transitioning to sustainable agricultural practices. This includes adopting agroecological methods and providing better education to farmers on how to handle pesticides safely. "These chemicals not only harm humans but also kill bees and other pollinators that are essential for food production. Without bees, agriculture is at risk," he warned.

Common foods such as tomatoes, vegetables, and fruits often reach consumers with visible pesticide residues. "If you look at the tomatoes and sukuma wiki in the market, you can see the whitish residues. It’s time we embraced safer alternatives," Geissler said.

Prof. Peter Atekyereza, the AnthEM Project Coordinator at Makerere University, highlighted the dangers faced by farmers who lack knowledge about safe pesticide handling. "Many farmers apply these chemicals without proper protection, leading to harmful effects on both themselves and consumers," he explained.

Experts recommend improving soil health, using natural pesticides, and strengthening government oversight. "Better soil health can make crops more resistant to pests. We must adopt alternatives that are effective but less harmful," Geissler added.

Uganda currently has 115 active pesticide ingredients and 669 brands legally registered. According to the Pesticide Action Network (PAN), 55 active ingredients and 459 brands fall under the category of HHPs. This highlights the urgent need for regulatory reform.

Prof. Stella Neema, a Social and Medical Anthropologist at Makerere University, warned that pesticides sold in developing countries often contain substances linked to cancer, neurological disorders, and reproductive problems. "Anyone who consumes vegetables with residues is at risk," she said.

Consumers are advised to thoroughly wash their produce before consumption, while farmers are encouraged to adopt pest-resistant varieties and organic farming methods. Ms. Leo Okoya, a PhD student at the University of Nairobi, pointed out that unwashed tomatoes are commonly consumed, especially in fast-food settings. "Most of these tomatoes are not washed. Someone just chops them, and consumers are exposed," she said.

A 2025 investigation by Public Eye, funded by Greenpeace UK, found that EU member states approved the export of nearly 122,000 tonnes of pesticides in 2024. These chemicals are banned in Europe due to their severe health and environmental risks.

Without swift action to eliminate HHPs, Uganda faces escalating health crises, declining food safety, and long-term environmental damage. The situation demands immediate attention from policymakers, farmers, and consumers alike.