The agricultural sector is the backbone of Uganda and many African economies, providing livelihoods for millions of people.
However, according to experts, the industry is facing a significant threat from counterfeit agrochemicals and fertilisers.
During the Crop Life Uganda Symposium 2025, held at Kampala Serena Hotel on Wednesday May 14, 2025, Mr. Seruwo Solomon, Marketing and Business Development Manager at Bukoola Chemical Industries Ltd, shed light on the economic risks, threats to farmer safety, and practical solutions to safeguard the industry.
He said that “This is a critical conversation that should be handled systematically”, and sounded a call to action for regulators, suppliers, and stakeholders to get involved.
Economic Risks
Seruwo explained that counterfeit agrochemicals and fertilisers pose significant economic risks to farmers, agricultural businesses, and the broader economy. Some of the economic risks he highlighted include:
Loss of crop yields
Counterfeit products can be ineffective or even harmful, leading to reduced crop yields and lower quality produce.
Financial losses
He noted that farmers may suffer financial losses due to the ineffectiveness of counterfeit products or the cost of replacing damaged crops. He pointed out that counterfeit agrochemicals also often lead to the death of animals on farms, resulting in huge losses for farmers.
Damage to reputation
The sale of counterfeit products can damage the reputation of legitimate manufacturers and suppliers, leading to loss of business and revenue.
Threats to Farmer Safety
Besides the above risks, counterfeit agrochemicals and fertilisers also pose significant threats to farmer safety. Some of the risks include:
Exposure to toxic chemicals
Counterfeit products may contain toxic chemicals that can harm farmers, their families and other people in the communities, including farm workers.
Health problems
Exposure to counterfeit agrochemicals and fertilisers can lead to health problems, including poisoning, skin irritation, different types of cancer, and respiratory issues.
Environmental damage
Counterfeit products can also contaminate soil, water, and air, leading to environmental damage and long-term health consequences.
Practical Solutions
To safeguard the industry and protect farmers, Seruwo proposed the following practical solutions:
Regulatory enforcement
Strengthening regulatory enforcement is critical to preventing the sale of counterfeit agrochemicals and fertilisers.
Supply chain integrity
He noted that there is a need to ensure the integrity of the supply chain is essential to preventing counterfeit products from entering the market.
Farmer education
Educating farmers on the risks of counterfeit products and the importance of buying from legitimate suppliers is crucial to preventing the sale of counterfeit agrochemicals and fertilisers.
Collaboration and partnership
He stressed that collaboration and partnership between regulators, suppliers, and stakeholders are essential in combating the sale of counterfeit agrochemicals and fertilisers.
The sale of counterfeit agrochemicals and fertilisers is a significant threat to the agricultural sector in Uganda. To safeguard the industry and protect farmers, it is essential to strengthen regulatory enforcement, ensure supply chain integrity, educate farmers, and promote collaboration and partnership between stakeholders.
By working together, we can prevent the sale of counterfeit products and promote a safe and sustainable agricultural industry.