By Kiyingi Godfrey/KMA Updates
Farmers have urged the government to tighten the law regulating the use of pesticides in Uganda, saying it will help safeguard the environment and reduce the growing number of diseases among citizens.
The appeal was made by ESAFF-Uganda a small-scale farmer-led organization, led by Irene Nakijoba, a board member, during a meeting with the Uganda Parliamentary Alliance on Food and Nutrition Security (UPA-FNS) at Parliament. The meeting aimed to discuss preparations for the upcoming World Food Day, scheduled for October 16, 2025.
Nakijoba said the existing Agricultural Chemicals (Control) Act, 2007, is ineffective and has failed to curb the rampant importation and misuse of harmful chemicals in the country.
“In Uganda, the use of pesticides has become the order of the day. Every day, dangerous chemicals that harm both the soil and human life are being imported into the country, yet there is a law that can be used to address this problem. I call upon government to review and strengthen the law to control pesticide use,” Nakijoba emphasized.
She added that many farmers have made it routine to spray all their crops without observing safety guidelines or using protective gear, thereby exposing themselves and consumers to health risks.
“Eating sprayed crops has increased cancer cases among Ugandans, yet there are safer methods that can help farmers achieve good yields,” she said.
Christine Nakimwero Kaaya, the General Secretary of UPA-FNS and Woman MP for Kiboga district, who chaired the meeting, echoed Nakijoba’s concerns. She said that ensuring food safety is key to building a healthy population.
“For Ugandans to remain healthy, we need sufficient and quality food free from excessive pesticide use,” Kaaya said.
She revealed that this year’s World Food Day will be celebrated in Fort Portal City under the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.”
Despite Uganda’s vast agricultural potential, Kaaya noted that millions of citizens still face food insecurity, while malnutrition—especially among children and women—remains high. Over 25 percent of Ugandan children under five are stunted, and widespread micronutrient deficiencies continue to undermine health, education, and productivity outcomes.
Members of the Uganda Parliamentary Alliance on Food and Nutrition Security reaffirmed their commitment to promoting and supporting policies that strengthen food systems, improve nutrition outcomes, and ensure food sovereignty.
They also called on government ministries, departments, and agencies to prioritize food and nutrition security in national planning and budgeting.