Mbabane – The Ministry of Agriculture convened a stakeholder engagement meeting this week to address the growing dangers posed by highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs).
Minister of Agriculture Mandla Tshawuka described pesticide misuse as a national crisis that is now threatening lives, communities, and the country’s future. The meeting gathered farmers, agro-dealers, researchers, health experts, civil society, and the private sector to chart a safer way forward.
Key issues raised included the need to align Eswatini’s obligations with global best practices, assess the rising cases of pesticide poisoning, and consider their effects on public health, livelihoods, and the economy. Officials also discussed the creation of a National Pesticide List that prioritises safety and supports the gradual phase-out of HHPs such as Master 900.
The Ministry, led by Tshawuka together with Principal Secretary Sydney Boy Simelane, pledged to drive a progressive reduction of these chemicals in order to protect citizens, safeguard biodiversity, and promote sustainable farming practices. Stakeholders were urged to collaborate in ensuring that no farmer, worker, or member of the public loses their life due to pesticide misuse.
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