From Toxic Chemicals to Agroecological Solutions: Africa Must Act
Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) represented by Rita Iyke Uwaka, the Administrator of the organization, joined civil society organisations and social movements from across Africa at a regional convening organised by COPAGEN during the 2026 World Social Forum in Cotonou, Benin.
The meeting focused on the growing threats that hazardous pesticides and agrochemicals pose to biodiversity, agroecological systems, food sovereignty, communities, farm workers and women’s rights. Participants highlighted a disturbing reality: multinational agrochemical corporations continue to profit from hazardous chemicals that contaminate soils and water, undermine forests, threaten biodiversity, weaken local food systems and expose farming communities, especially women, to serious health and environmental risks.
Agroecology Offers a Solution Pathway
As part of the convening, participants visited Sain Farms in Cotonou, where they observed the production and use of biofertilisers and biopesticides made from natural and organic materials.
The visit demonstrated that productive and healthy agriculture does not have to depend on toxic chemicals. Farmers and communities can draw on locally available knowledge, resources and practices to develop safer, more resilient and sustainable food systems.The experience also provided practical demonstrations in composting, agroforestry and natural pest management.
It reinforced a clear message: Africa already possesses the knowledge, resources and practical alternatives needed to advance agroecology, protect biodiversity and strengthen food sovereignty.
A Call for Urgent Action
ERA/FoEN stands with African communities, farmers, women and environmental justice movements in calling for an end to the production, promotion and use of hazardous pesticides and chemicals by multinational corporations.
Together, we must build food systems that protect biodiversity, agroforestry, soils and water sources—not systems that allow corporations to profit at the expense of our environment, our people and our planet.
Our forests. Our farms. Our food.Our environment is our life!
Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN)… Protecting the Environment, Democratizing Development.