An investigation into pesticide imports, distribution and use in Zambia with special emphasis on the role of multinational companies

Abstract

This study investigated Zambian importation, distribution and use of agricultural pesticides.

Data was collected by interviews, questionnaires and direct observation at international, national, warehouse and user levels. A wide range of pesticides is available. Imports and distribution are controlled by a few multinational companies (MNC's). No government control exists on types or amounts imported, and on distribution, packaging or labelling. Safety information is virtually non-existent. Some Zambianused pesticides are under restriction in the West. The total amount used seems to be increasing. Harmful health effects have been observed. The number of involved MNC's appears to be increasing.

The largest amount of imported pesticides is used by government in large scale medical and agricultural control schemes. In agriculture, large-scale farmers use most pesticides, but small-scale farmers are now beginning to use greater amounts and more types.

Most MNC's see this latter sector as a large future market. Most farmers get pesticide information only from MNC's. By comparison, the Extension Service is inadequate. Consequently, the authors suggest that the following are needed: A broad based Zambian advisory committee on pesticides; government legislation of importation, distribution, packaging, labelling and safety; and Extension Service expansion.