A report from the **African Centre for Biodiversity** reveals that in **South Africa** the use of **192 highly toxic pesticides** is still allowed, of which **57 are banned in the European Union (EU)**.
These chemicals include neurotoxic and carcinogenic substances and others considered acutely toxic to the environment. This problem not only threatens ecosystems but also exposes **agricultural workers and their families** to severe risks, perpetuating deep economic and social inequalities in the country.
Impact on Workers and Vulnerable Communities
The most affected are **agricultural workers**, who often live near fumigation areas.
These people face precarious working conditions: unstable contracts, low wages, excessive workloads, and little protection against chemical risks.
According to the **Women on Farms (WFP)** project, **women** are especially vulnerable due to biological and social factors that put them in a position of greater exposure.
During a recent hearing, numerous female workers stated that they do not receive **personal protective equipment**, being forced to use **scarves to cover their faces** while working. Others mentioned the lack of access to basic necessities such as **running water and toilets** in agricultural fields, exacerbating inequalities.
These conditions reflect a systematically unequal reality, inherited from the apartheid past, where **Boer landowners** still dominate many farms.
Controversies in Regulation and International Trade
The discussion on hazardous pesticides also has an international dimension. In the EU, there is a debate about restricting imports of food from third countries containing **residues of pesticides** banned in Europe. However, **South Africa** and other exporting nations face obstacles aligning their standards with these restrictions, given the complexity of their agricultural realities.
The agro-industrial lobbying group **CropLife** argues that certain pesticides are necessary in specific agricultural contexts, such as those faced by South African crops and climates.
Furthermore, South Africa is working towards a **progressive elimination of highly toxic pesticides**, but critics point out that regulation is often not effectively enforced.
In many cases, agricultural workers are **unaware of their rights** or hesitate to defend them for fear of reprisals. This highlights the lack of protection and education on the risks associated with these chemicals.
Rotterdam Convention and the Need for Reforms
Internationally, the **Rotterdam Convention** seeks to promote informed decisions among countries trading in hazardous chemicals. However, experts argue that compliance with these treaties is often insufficient, especially in regions like South Africa, where the economic interests of large agro-industries often outweigh environmental and public health concerns.
In this context, ensuring **responsible pesticide use** and protecting agricultural communities requires not only compliance with international regulations but also prioritizing education and empowering workers. Without these measures, inequalities and risks will remain a persistent reality in **rural areas of South Africa**.
Cover photo: Natasha Foote
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