Agrochemical experts meet in Kampala to draft evaluation guidelines for plant protection products
Mwambu explained that as science advances and new information emerges on the efficacy, safety and environmental impact of these products, there is a need for continuous review of regulatory frameworks.
Agriculture ministry crop inspection and certification commissioner Dr Paul Mwambu
By Prossy Nandudu
Journalists @New Vision
KAMPALA - Agrochemical experts have converged at the Silver Springs Hotel in Kampala city to develop and evaluate guidelines that will be used to reevaluate registered plant protection products or agrochemicals in the country.
When ready, the guidelines are expected to help agrochemical experts assess all registered plant protection products or agricultural chemical agrochemicals.
This will also take care of those banned by the European Union but still find their way into the East African region.
While officiating at a five-day evaluation meeting that ends today, July 25, 2025, Agriculture ministry crop inspection and certification commissioner Dr Paul Mwambu said that whereas plant protection products safeguard our crops, it is important for continuous review and update of regulatory frameworks that govern those products to take into consideration the prevailing challenges.
Mwambu explained that as science advances and new information emerges on the efficacy, safety and environmental impact of these products, there is a need for continuous review of regulatory frameworks.
“It becomes imperative that we continuously review and update our regulatory frameworks to reflect current knowledge and best practices. The re-evaluation process is not only a regulatory necessity but also a critical step in promoting sustainable agriculture and protecting our natural resources,” Mwambu said.
He also emphasised that plant protection products are vital in the agricultural sector because they safeguard crops against pests, diseases, and weeds, thereby contributing to food security, livelihoods, and economic growth in Uganda.
The meeting was convened by the Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI).
The meeting is being attended by participants from the Ministry of Agriculture, Health, Crop Life, Civil Society: CONSENT and the Food Safety Coalition of Uganda (FOSCU), NEMA, UNBS, NARO, and Agrochemical technical committee representatives, among others.