The program was officially launched at a two-day seminar in Dar es Salaam. Tanzania's environmental organization AGENDA is coordinating the project and monitoring its implementation at the regional level. The initiative targets primarily smallholder farmers, who are most at risk from exposure to chemicals, and aims to transform agricultural systems into models that are more resilient to climate change.
Stakeholders expressed deep concern about the use of toxic chemicals, especially in the production of cotton and vegetables. Experts warn that this dependence has serious consequences, including water pollution, food waste, loss of biodiversity and significant long-term health risks. These fears are supported by data from the World Health Organization (WHO), according to which in 2016, about 77,000 deaths were linked to unintentional pesticide poisoning and more than 155,000 deaths were linked to self-poisoning.
To tackle these problems, the programme will train farmers in agroecology - a method that uses natural pest control, crop rotation and improved soil management. By promoting these alternatives, the initiative aims to maintain productivity while eliminating the need to use harmful chemicals.
The project is supported by the international expertise of the International Pesticide Network and the British Pesticide Network. In addition, the Rainforest Alliance will assist Kenyan farmers in obtaining organic certification, thereby expanding market access and increasing revenues. By supporting similar efforts in Benin, Burkina Faso, Guinea and Senegal, the program facilitates the sharing of best practice across the continent.
Ultimately, the initiative aims to reach at least 3,000 smallholder farmers. By promoting safer and more sustainable agriculture, East Africa is joining a global movement to protect human health, ensure long-term food security, and adapt to changing climate and market demands.
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