Programme

Pesticide Harm Reduction

Protecting Kenya's farming communities from the health and environmental risks of pesticide use through education, training, and evidence-based advocacy.

Our Approach

Promoting Safe Pesticide Use in Agriculture

Pesticide poisoning is a significant but often overlooked public health crisis in rural Kenya. Thousands of farmers and their families are exposed to toxic pesticides each year, resulting in acute and chronic health consequences. HRSK raises awareness on safe pesticide use and advocates for policies that protect farming communities.

Pesticide harm reduction focuses on minimising the risks associated with the use of highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs). These chemicals, while effective in pest control, pose significant health and environmental risks. By adopting safer practices and alternatives, we can protect both human health and the environment.

Our programme targets smallholder farming communities across Kenya, with particular attention to women farmers and children who face disproportionate exposure risk. We provide practical, culturally appropriate training on safe handling, storage, and disposal of pesticides.

Pesticide Publications Get Involved

Key Strategies

How We Reduce Pesticide-Related Harm

Practical, field-tested strategies that protect farmers, families, and communities from the dangers of pesticide exposure.

Buffer Zones

Establishing buffer zones around areas where pesticides are used to reduce exposure to non-target areas, prevent drift, and protect nearby water sources and communities.

Education & Training

Educating farmers and workers on safe pest management practices and alternative pest control methods to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides. Training programmes address risks and proper handling.

Personal Protective Equipment

Ensuring users wear proper PPE when handling pesticides — gloves, masks, goggles, and protective clothing — to minimise direct exposure and reduce acute poisoning incidents.

Proper Labelling

Ensuring pesticides are labelled clearly, including for users who cannot read. Labels must include safety instructions, warnings, and first-aid measures, including in Kiswahili and local languages.

Observe Preharvest Intervals

Following proper preharvest intervals to minimise pesticide residues on crops. This ensures that crops are safe for consumption and reduces the risk of community-level exposure.

Integrated Pest Management

Promoting IPM strategies that combine biological, cultural, and mechanical pest control to reduce chemical pesticide dependence — focusing on long-term prevention and sustainable farming.