agriculture 1 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Bans 9 Hazardous Agrochemicals, Restricts 9 Others
Uganda has banned nine hazardous agrochemicals and restricted nine others, effective April, to protect public health, safeguard the environment, and ensure export market compliance. The move follows warnings about dangerously high chemical residues in food products. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-bans-nine-hazardous-agrochemicals-to-safeguard-health-export-markets-5481766
The Ugandan Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) has implemented a significant regulatory change, banning nine widely used agrochemical active ingredients and placing nine others under strict restrictions. This decision, which took effect in April, aims to protect public health, the environment, and the nation’s agricultural export markets.
The move was prompted by scientific evidence and trade concerns regarding the potential risks associated with these substances. A recent symposium in Kampala highlighted findings that improper or excessive use of agrochemicals has led to dangerously elevated chemical residues in food products like vegetables and milk, posing a threat to consumers and export viability.
Dr. Paul Mwambu, Commissioner for Crop Inspection and Certification at MAAIF, explained that the ban followed a request by Crop Life Uganda to review 18 specific agrochemicals due to safety issues. After rigorous scientific testing and technical reviews, nine ingredients were phased out due to their severe toxicity to humans and ecosystems. These include Alpha-cypermethrin, Chlorothalonil, Atrazine, Butachlor, Carbofuran, Dichlorvos, Dimethoate, Diuron, and Propanil, each with documented adverse effects on health and the environment.
Nine other agrochemicals have been placed under tight restrictions, limiting their use to specific crops or applications. For example, Ametryn is restricted to sugarcane and pineapple plantations, while Carbendazim is approved only for cashew nuts. Notably, Mancozeb, a crucial fungicide for potatoes, tomatoes, and fruits, has been granted a five-year exception due to the lack of viable alternatives, with efforts underway to find safer substitutes.
Farmers have been given a 180-day deadline to cease the field application of banned products and transition to approved alternatives. For restricted chemicals, strict controls, including revised labels and Pre-Harvest Interval enforcement, will be in place, supported by enhanced surveillance and compliance inspections across the agricultural value chain.