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Impact of climate change on pest spread in Kenya

Pests and diseases are increasingly affecting food crops and vegetation in Kenya, with climate change exacerbating the situation. The Agrochemicals Association of Kenya (AAK Grow) has identified pests such as leaf miners, fruit flies, maize stalk borer, Tuta absoluta, and anthracnose as major threats. Benson Ngigi, Stewardship Manager at AAK Grow, highlighted the tropical climate of Kenya as a factor contributing to the spread of these pests, providing a warm and humid environment conducive to their growth. The rise in temperature and increased rainfall further facilitate their expansion into new areas, posing a risk to crops like coffee.

Ngigi pointed out the challenge in eradicating pests once they establish in new territories, citing the time-consuming and costly nature of management efforts. He also noted the phenomenon of pest resurgence, where pests rebound to higher levels after initial insecticide treatment due to resistance mechanisms. AAK Grow is addressing these challenges through various strategies, including the promotion of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Technologies, conducting surveys on pesticide resistance, and advocating for pesticide regulation reforms.

The IPM approach combines cultural, biological, mechanical, and chemical methods to manage pest populations sustainably. This strategy aims to protect consumer health and the environment while ensuring crop sustainability. AAK Grow emphasizes the importance of maintaining safety standards in pesticide use to safeguard farmers, consumers, traders, and the environment. The organization has implemented product stewardship programs to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks associated with pesticide use. In 2020, over 26 tonnes of obsolete pesticides were disposed of, demonstrating the effectiveness of these management efforts.

Source: Farmers Review Africa

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