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How agro-dealer training in Uganda is reducing pesticide risks and making farming safer

Agro-dealers can play a critical role in sharing knowledge about pesticide safety and biopesticides. Misusing chemical pesticides harms farmers, consumers, animals and the environment. However, safe handling of pesticides and the use of nature-based alternatives help to reduce these risks. Nevertheless, many farmers lack access to relevant information. It has been estimated that less than one in four farming households in Uganda has received extension service advice, for example. This gap highlights the need for alternative knowledge-sharing channels.

Agro-dealers are well-placed to bridge this gap, given their key role as the main sellers of pesticides. In particular, they can share information on pesticide risk reduction and lower-risk plant protection products (LRPPPs). A 2018 report estimated that Uganda has approximately 3,000 agro-dealers. By offering agricultural advice, they could also expand the reach of extension services. Strengthening their capacity is key to improving farmer support. PlantwisePlus has been supporting Uganda with just that.

Leveraging pesticide risk reduction through knowledge sharing

Many agro-dealers lack the technical knowledge to give proper advice on safe pesticide handling, biopesticides and Integrated Pest Management (IPM). A 2021 study found that almost half of 402 surveyed agro-dealers in Uganda did not have the required certification for handling pesticides. Furthermore, 41.5% did not have a trade license at all.

In 2021, a CABI survey of 557 agro-dealers in Uganda identified knowledge gaps in their understanding of LRPPPs. However, it also revealed their strong interest in acquiring the skills to provide and sell them. At the time, only 16% were selling biopesticides. This was primarily due to a lack of access and awareness about LRPPPs and a lack of demand from farmers. To address this gap and leverage the agro-dealer network in Uganda, PlantwisePlus supported a collaborative initiative with:

The initiative led to the creation of training content for agro-dealers. The information supplemented existing teaching on safe pesticide use. It also included an additional training companion on LRPPPs. Furthermore, it covered nature-based farming approaches such as IPM. In November 2024, PlantwisePlus handed over the training toolkit.

The materials now complement agro-dealer training in Uganda. In particular, they incorporate blended training methodologies with activities, videos and visuals. These all help to enhance the learning experience. The training has been a huge success. Agro-dealers and farmers are making concrete changes to reduce pesticide risks and introduce LRPPPs into agricultural practices.

A workshop to advance biopesticide training

Agro-input dealers from past training sessions shared their experiences at a workshop convened by CABI and MAAIF.

The agro-dealer training conducted by MAAIF’s Department of Crop Inspection and Certification (DCIC) included the lower-risk plant protection module. By August 2024, 623 dealers had been trained. Moreover, a total of 487 had earned certificates to operate as agro-input dealers.

In November 2024, CABI convened a workshop in collaboration with MAAIF to gather feedback about the training’s impact. Specifically, the workshop looked at changes in attitudes, knowledge and practices around pesticides and biopesticides. Agro-input dealers from past training sessions shared their experiences. They noted that the training had increased their knowledge. This led to changes in their behaviour and in the practices of the farmers they supported.

In particular, the agro-dealers explained how farmer safety had improved as a result of the training. They were able to give farmers tailored advice on safe pesticide use. For example, farmers stopped eating while spraying pesticides and no longer transported pesticides with food. Furthermore, agro-dealers remarked on how label interpretation had improved following training. This helped to ensure more accurate recommendations to farmers. They also commented on concrete changes. For instance, they could now differentiate between low-risk plant protection products and highly hazardous chemicals. This helped them to give recommendations about LRPPPs.

Notably, the agro-dealers also shared information about IPM with farmers. Subsequently, the farmers adopted more IPM strategies. This included chemical rotation, pest and disease identification and use of biopesticides. The agro-dealers started to hear reports of increased crop yields, demonstrating the impact of the training.

Changing safety practices in agro-shops

Agro-dealers also changed the way they sell pesticides. For example, they discontinued selling more highly hazardous products. Instead, they promoted safer, lower-risk pesticides. They also advocated the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), which has now improved among farmers. In particular, this included the use of gloves and masks during pesticide application and handling. Agro-dealers themselves reported using PPE more consistently.

In the agro-shops, practices changed to improve safety. For example, agro-dealers introduced handwashing facilities and sand to clean chemical spills. They became more vigilant about safety in shops. They also aerated rooms before entering. Shop owners stopped hazardous practices like repackaging pesticides inside the shop due to personal hazards. In addition, they relocated living spaces away from pesticide shops to reduce exposure.

“After training I opened up an agro-input shop and advise farmers with confidence.” Nakirya Tabitha, agro-input dealer, Uganda.

Boosting businesses, incomes and networks

Sharing group feedback.

The agro-dealers commented on how the training has boosted their opportunities in business. A plant doctor who attended the training, commented:

“I have been given a chance of heading the crop production department at my workplace.” Ruth Namara

She also now trains farmers and students on safe pesticide use and LRPPPs.

Similarly, other agro-dealers discussed how they have been able to offer extension services to farmers. They have attracted more clients due to the knowledge they gained. Some have increased their customer base as a result. This has led to increased sales and incomes. Agro-dealers at the workshop described how they have earned from 600,000 to 30,000,000 shillings (or US$160 to $8,100) over the past three months.

Among the softer outcomes, agro-dealers reported how they had increased their business networks. They also gained more friends. Furthermore, they felt the training had boosted their confidence.

Agro-dealer training is reducing pesticide risks

The feedback workshop was a great success. MAAIF’s Assistant Commissioner, Mr. John Mwanja, expressed his appreciation for the initiative. He commended the changes among trainees in pesticide and biopesticide use. He also highlighted the benefits of collaboration.

Dr Paul Mwambu, Commissioner for Crop Inspection and Certification at MAAIF, highlighted how the pilot programme had reached an impressive group. This included 50 inspectors and 55 agrochemical dealers. It also included 36 district local government extension officers from 18 districts. He said:

“The response has been encouraging. I am confident that with these training materials, we are setting a new standard for plant protection practices across the country.” Dr Paul Mwambu

Training agro-dealers in Uganda has improved farm safety and safety in agro-shops. Moreover, it has promoted non-chemical alternatives and expanded the adoption of IPM. Beyond safer agricultural practices, the training has boosted business opportunities, incomes and networks. Going forward, by continuing to share knowledge, agro-dealers in Uganda are driving safer, more sustainable farming.