A walk through farm pathways, drainage channels, rubbish heaps, farmland and wetlands reveals used agrochemical containers abandoned by farmers. The sight partly paints a picture of chemical residual matter reportedly degrading biodiversity.
A section of conservationists in Uganda estimate that over 85 percent of farmers who integrate agrochemicals, acaricides and other farm chemicals into their practices dump used containers on farm pathways, in drainage channels and bushes, endangering ecosystems.
The careless disposal policy partly accounts for reduced soil fertility and high temperatures among other climate change related challenges.
While agrochemical manufacturers place cautionary user instructions on products for proper handling, storage and application, instructions regarding disposal of used containers are often missing.
A bigger percentage of end users are unaware about the dangers of residual chemical waste disposal, according to Mr Amos Masaba Kabala, a conservationist attached to Safe Earth Support for All.
‘Farmers use chemical containers at the garden side, bushes and drainage channels. The chemical residue spills and sinks into the soil while some of the toxic substances evaporate into the atmosphere. The toxics also find their way into the water bodies through the water runoff,’ he says.
The Agricultural Chemicals Control Act, 2007 mandates proper labeling, handling and disposal of agrochemicals. The National Environment Waste Management Regulations, 2020 classify pesticide waste and empty containers as hazardous waste. The laws prohibit improper disposal, burning or littering and hold individuals and businesses fully responsible for cleanup and disposal.
Conservationists demand strict adherence to international safety standards for agrochemical waste poorly disposed of on farms, pathways, water channels and other open spaces. They are rallying for public awareness and possible revision of guidelines to counter irreversible effects partly blamed for climate change and health complications.
The National State of Environment Report 2024 prepared by Nema in coordination with the Ministry of Water and Environment pins industrialisation and use of a multitude of agrochemicals as driving factors of environmental pollution. The report identifies agrochemicals on the open market linked to pollution and cautions end users on risk factors.
It states that surface water bodies in Uganda receive large amounts of phosphorus and nitrogen that account for eutrophication. About 90 percent of agrochemicals contain large amounts of phosphorus and nitrogen. The report condemns poor waste disposal including open dumping and burning of waste, which contribute to environmental degradation, water contamination and air pollution. It recommends a coordinated approach involving infrastructure improvement, policy reform, public awareness and promotion of sustainable consumption.
Mr Abdul Salabwa, an agro input dealer and conservationist, says government has a duty to protect the environment by guiding farmers on proper disposal methods.
‘The farmers tell us that they collect the agrochemical waste material and burn it in the open air which is very dangerous. The dark fumes that get into the air carrying toxic substances are dangerous to humans, ecosystems and the entire biodiversity,’ he says.
Toxic substances left unattended degrade the environment and wipe out microbial enzymes important for plant health. Vegetation is drying up while aquatics are equally affected, Mr Johnson Semanda Beebwa, an environment actor, reveals.
‘When you visit farmers’ gardens, the used agrochemical containers are a common sight. It is likely that a bigger section of farmers are ignorant about the dangers that come with the littered agrochemical residues. Only a few farmers get to read and comprehend the user instructions,’ he says.
Dr Miriam Catty Nagudi, a food scientist and conservationist, says the UN through FAO and WHO provide the International Code of Conduct on Pesticide Management with voluntary standards from production to disposal.
‘It’s unfortunate that we do not have strict guidelines to help farmers in disposing of agrochemical residual. The fact is that even the manufacturers at many times skip that crucial stage of disposing of the agrochemical residual or used containers that in many cases carry high concentrations of residues. The entire ecosystems get affected because of the carelessness,’ she says.
At a sensitization meeting for eco-farmers by SEFSA on May 4, 2026, stakeholders including farmers denied knowledge of proper disposal. Mr Francis Okiror, a farmer from Kigumba Town Council, said burning agrochemical residue in open air is common practice targeting plastic waste elimination.
‘A bigger section of the farmers are not aware about the dangers of burning the agrochemical residual products in the open air. It is also common knowledge that we don’t have the other alternatives. The agrochemical residues are littered on the farms, drainage channels and the bushes,’ he said.
Another farmer from Masindi Port said he was advised to dig a shallow pit and bury waste. Experts say this is wrong because residue sinks into soil and containers remain intact with toxic chemicals that can spill out.
The solution
Experts advise farmers to triple-rinse containers with water to highly dilute content before disposal. Containers should have a collection area but must contain no chemical residue. Farmers are cautioned against burning containers or burying waste. Containers should not be reused for food or drinks even after rinsing.
Farmers are advised to link up with agronomists and extension staff for advice on handling expired agrochemicals and used containers.
The World Health Organisation estimates worldwide pesticide exposure causes 20,000 deaths annually and at least 3 million cases of acute poisoning, many caused by mishandling of pesticide waste and containers.