NEW: Kutsaga blacklists use of hazardous EDB in tobacco 

Online Reporter 

KUTSAGA’s Tobacco Research Board has blacklisted the use of ethylene dibromide (EDB), a soil fumigant that was previously used in the production of flue-cured tobacco.

The TRB, as mandated by the Tobacco Marketing and Levy Act (Chapter 18:20), continually tests, approves and monitors all crop protection agents for use on tobacco under the Pesticide Approval Scheme Service.

In a statement, Kutsaga pesticide expert Ms Chiyedza Nyamakura said the ban is occasioned by the negative human and environmental effects of the chemical.

“Ethylene dibromide has been a widely used method for soil fumigation on tobacco for many years. However, it is important to note that due to its highly hazardous properties and potential negative impact on human and environmental health, EDB will be phased out for use on tobacco at the end of 2024,” said Ms Nyamakura.

Several alternative nematicides and soil fumigation formulations, she said, were, however, available for nematode control in tobacco production.

“Additionally, new active ingredients are currently being evaluated so as to give growers a wide variety to select from.”

The agrochemicals approved for use on tobacco by the TRB during the first quarter of 2024 have been listed on Kutsaga’s website and social media handles for farmers to make informed decisions.

Any use of chemicals excluded from the list will be in violation of the law.