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By Milliam Murigi

For many years, CropLife International, an international organization of agrochemical firms, has been recognized as the leading global body advocating for producers of chemical crop protection substances.

Nevertheless, as the agricultural environment changes and the need for eco-friendly farming practices grows, the organization is currently undergoing a significant transformation, incorporating biopesticides into a harmonious, environmentally conscious method of protecting crops.

“Although we have been creating chemical pesticides for many years, we consistently emphasize that chemicals should only be used as a final option, after all other pest control methods have been exhausted,” says Margaux Rundstadler, Director of Public Affairs and Communication at CropLife Africa Middle East.

She addressed the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) 2025 Congress, which was organized by Media for Environment, Science, and Agriculture (MESHA) in Nairobi, Kenya.

As she mentioned, the organization is leading the way in advancing research, development, and use of biopesticides throughout the continent. This is because these substances, which come from naturally occurring sources like plants, bacteria, fungi, and minerals, are becoming more widely seen as safer and more environmentally friendly options compared to synthetic pesticides.

When combined with traditional pesticides, biopesticides work together to boost crop production, allow for longer application periods, and aid in successful resistance control for farmers..They also help in lowering pesticide residues on plants, particularly when used near the time of harvest, which enhances consumer safety and aids local farmers in expanding their export markets, thus increasing income in rural areas. Moreover, they pose fewer environmental dangers while being generally safe for those applying them.

“Biopesticides (BioPPPs) are among the solutions that can provide numerous advantages when properly incorporated into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies. They assist in decreasing reliance on chemical pesticides, promote biodiversity, and maintain long-term soil health, which are essential components of contemporary sustainable farming,” Rundstadler notes.

As she mentioned, currently, the Africa–Middle East region is at a critical juncture. It needs to address the increasing challenges to food security caused by climate change and the escalating issues from pests and diseases, all while keeping up with the needs of a quickly growing population.

At the same time, the region needs to boost its competitiveness in the global export market by manufacturing food with lower residues to meet the increasing demands of environmentally aware global consumers. This intricate challenge requires creative, research-based solutions that ensure both production efficiency and environmental protection, which is precisely the path CropLife International is pursuing.

This change reflects the organization’s dedication to promoting farming sustainability and protecting biological diversity, while also making sure that farmers still have reliable methods for controlling pests and illnesses.

“We are not only funding the development of biopesticides but also assisting in simplifying regulatory procedures to enable farmers to gain access more quickly. Our objective is to encourage a well-rounded set of tools that integrate both traditional and biological methods,” Rundstadler stated.

The market for biopesticides in Africa and the Middle East is experiencing consistent expansion as governments and regulatory bodies adopt integrated pest management approaches that prioritize natural and eco-friendly alternatives.

For example, in Kenya, the registration of biopesticides has risen from 5 percent to 10 percent in 2025, showing a noticeable increase in trust within the industry. Likewise, in Morocco, the percentage of registered biopesticides increased from five to six percent in 2024, indicating the start of a more extensive regional shift.

To expedite this shift, CropLife International is working with governments, research organizations, and private enterprises to enhance capabilities and establish a supportive regulatory framework. Rundstadler highlighted that regulatory challenges continue to be one of the main obstacles to broader implementation, as the approval procedures for biological products tend to be time-consuming and complicated in comparison to traditional pesticides. She emphasized that streamlining these processes would speed up innovation and enable farmers to obtain safer options more quickly.

In addition to regulatory efforts, CropLife is focusing on educating farmers to ensure that the use of biopesticides leads to tangible outcomes. Via its responsibility initiatives, the group provides training to farmers on appropriate handling, storage, and integrated pest control methods. The aim is to instill trust in farmers that biopesticides can produce consistent results without disrupting the environment.

Ultimately, it’s about providing farmers with options,” Rundstadler said. “They require tools that are effective in their particular settings, whether it’s a biological method or a chemical one. The key is to use these tools properly to guarantee food security, preserve biodiversity, and support livelihoods.