Online Reporter
Precious Manomano-Herald Reporter
Zimbabwe is grappling with a pressing public health and environmental crisis as the use of Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs) continues to pose significant risks to farmers, consumers, and the ecosystem.
With alarming rates of acute pesticide poisoning reported among agricultural workers and growing concerns over long-term health effects, experts warn that the unchecked reliance on these chemicals threatens not only human health but also the very foundation of the nation’s agricultural sustainability.
As the country seeks to transform its agricultural sector in alignment with Vision 2030, the urgent need for effective risk mitigation strategies has never been clearer.
Speaking at the stakeholder workshop, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Permanent Secretary, Professor Obert Jiri, emphasised the need for a comprehensive risk mitigation strategy to protect human health and the environment.
Dr Dumisani Kutywayo made the presentation on behalf of Prof Jiri.
“The risks posed by highly hazardous pesticides are well documented. Their continued use threatens not only human health but also biodiversity and the integrity of our agricultural systems,” said Prof Jiri.
The workshop marked a pivotal moment in Zimbabwe’s commitment to transforming its agricultural landscape through science, policy, and partnerships aimed at fostering safer farming practices.
As the nation works towards its Vision 2030 goals, Prof Jiri reiterated the mission to establish Zimbabwe as an upper-middle-income economy, emphasising the importance of inclusive growth, innovation, and resilience.
HHPs present a paradox: while they are often employed to safeguard crops and ensure food security, their misuse can undermine the very foundations of agricultural sustainability.
“We continue to see cases of acute pesticide poisoning among our farmers and farmworkers, who are the backbone of our nation’s food system,” Prof Jiri, noted, highlighting the immediate health risks associated with these chemicals.
The chronic health effects are even more alarming. Studies have linked long-term exposure to HHPs with various health issues, including certain cancers, neurological disorders, and reproductive health problems.
“This is a silent crisis unfolding in our rural areas,” Prof Jiri warned, calling for urgent action to address these public health challenges.
The environmental ramifications of HHP usage cannot be ignored either. These chemicals do not respect geographical boundaries; they leach into soils, reducing fertility and microbial life, while also contaminating rivers, lakes, and aquifers.
“They harm pollinators such as bees, which are indispensable for the productivity of many of our key crops,” Prof Jiri explained, stressing the need for a holistic approach to agricultural health.
The economic implications are equally significant. The global market increasingly demands produce that is not only safe but also sustainably grown. Residues of HHPs on Zimbabwean export commodities pose a serious risk of rejection at international borders, potentially costing the economy millions and undermining the livelihoods of commercial farmers.
Addressing the challenges posed by HHPs requires a multifaceted approach, Mr Kenneth Chipere, an official from the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, said precautions need to be taken.
“We need to protect ourselves, our children, and the vulnerable populations.” He highlighted the challenges faced in the disposal of pesticides, emphasising that this is a nationwide issue that needs urgent attention.
As Zimbabwe moves forward with its Highly Hazardous Pesticides Risk Mitigation Strategy for 2025-2034, the validation of regional guidelines for biopesticide registration and the development of the Agriculture Food Systems and Rural Transformation Strategy 2 are critical steps.
The workshop underscored the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to develop innovative solutions that prioritise both human health and environmental integrity.
As Zimbabwe navigates the complexities of agricultural transformation, the call to action is clear: addressing the risks of highly hazardous pesticides is not just a regulatory necessity but a moral imperative for the well-being of its people and the sustainability of its environment.
