The use of pesticides based on abamectin and thiamethoxam in open fields is strictly prohibited by a regulation issued by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB). In order to protect pollinators and maintain environmental sustainability, the Board made this decision of allowing restriction on Thiamethoxam and Abamectin during its 178th meeting on November 28, 2024.
Key Points of the Restriction on Thiamethoxam and Abamectin:
High Risk to Pollinators: These compounds offer a serious acute risk to adult bees both within and outside of crop fields, according to recent risk evaluations.
Practical Limitations: It might not be possible to enforce greenhouse-only use in many agricultural situations, especially in Kenya.
Regulatory Compliance: The restriction is consistent with regulation 31(d) and 33(b) of the Pest Control Products Regulation, 2024.
Actions Required for Local Agents and Registrants:
1. Immediately modify product labelling to prevent open field usage.
2. Submit amended labels to PCPB for approval.
3. Eliminate current stocks of these products for open field usage within 6 months.
4. The PCPB will not register new Thiamethoxam and Abamectin-based products for open field use.
The PCPB urges all stakeholders to comply with this directive promptly to protect pollinators and ensure the long-term health of agricultural ecosystems.
