(THIKA, KENYA) – Experts have raised concerns over excessive use of pesticides by farmers. They warn that it is affecting food production, soil health and human wellbeing. They are pushing for wider adoption of organic farming and reduced reliance on synthetic chemicals. They say prolonged use of agricultural chemicals has degraded some farmlands and that technical interventions are needed to restore soil health and improve productivity.
Speaking during an organic seeds expo in Thika, Kiambu County, the experts said increased adoption of organic seeds and lower use of synthetic chemicals could support healthier diets. They added that this could help tackle lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, cancer and hypertension. George Boro of PELUM Kenya led the experts.
Boro called for greater investment in sustainable farming practices that protect soil fertility. He said farmers need support to shift from overreliance on synthetic chemicals and adopt methods that preserve the environment and improve food quality. He said there is a need to rethink food production and give farmers practical alternatives that protect the soil, the environment and consumer health.
East African Legislative Assembly MP Maina Karobia attended the event. He called on the government to revive agricultural extension services to help farmers improve crop production. Karobia said the decline in extension services has left many farmers without enough technical support on crop selection, soil fertility management and land use. He said farmers need technical support to understand what is affecting their soils and how to restore fertility. He added that increased productivity cannot be expected when farmers lack access to agricultural extension services.
The experts called for stronger collaboration among farmers, agricultural experts and the government to expand organic farming. They also called for increased access to organic seeds. They urged policymakers to prioritise sustainable agriculture and provide farmers with the knowledge, inputs and support needed to move to safer and environmentally friendly production methods.