MAAIF to shut down unlicensed agrochemical shops in Masindi

Masindi: The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) has announced an impending operation to shut down all unlicensed agrochemical shops in Masindi District.

The announcement was made on Tuesday by Fred Muzila, Senior Agriculture Inspector at MAAIF, during the launch of a five-day training for agrochemical dealers on the safe handling of agrochemicals.

The training, taking place at Bright Institute of Agriculture in Kyetegya Cell, Kigulya Division, Masindi Municipality, has attracted participants from Kiboga, Hoima, Buliisa, and Masindi districts.

Muzila warned that many agrochemical shops in the district are operated by unskilled personnel, posing significant health and environmental risks.

Speaking at the event, Job Byaruhanga, the Masindi District Agricultural Officer, reiterated that the crackdown will spare no one.

He noted that despite several sensitization efforts, many agrochemical dealers have remained reluctant to comply with licensing requirements.

Similarly, Milton Kutegeka, the LC III Chairperson of Kigulya Division, highlighted the dangers of unskilled employees running agrochemical shops. He pointed out that the sale of misused or expired agrochemicals has led to significant financial losses for farmers and has exposed consumers to serious health hazards, including ulcers and other complications.

Davis Barungi, Director of Bright Institute of Agriculture, emphasized that the training aims to equip agrochemical dealers with proper handling skills and certify them to operate within legal frameworks.

As the government moves to enforce regulations, agrochemical dealers are urged to obtain proper certification and comply with licensing requirements to avoid closure.

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