Challenge of obsolete chemicals management: Its causes, public health and environmental impacts in developing countries (Ethiopia)

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Obsolete pesticides are major public health and environmental concern. Ethiopia is one of the largest stockpiles of obsolete pesticides in Africa. The scope of the problem is dramatically high and significant, where more than 3000 tonnes of obsolete pesticides, much of it over 20 years old, is stored in around 900 sites throughout the country. Inventoriesshowed that, the storage condition of obsolete pesticides is very poor, with leaking drums, burst open sacks, and the stores themselves are in a bad state posing great threat to human health and the environment. The main cause of accumulation of obsolete pesticide in Ethiopia is excessive and uncoordinated donations by donor agencies and purchases of pesticides by the Ethiopian Government and inefficient pesticide distribution. Deterioration of pesticide was also due to inadequate storage condition, lack of trained staff in pesticide management, absence of regular stock inspection and national legislation. Therefore, education to the public about the danger of pesticide is important. Intensive training for staff and other people who are involved in pesticide storage, transport, handling and management should be emphasized. Moreover, donors and the Ethiopian government have to arrange a good communication strategy to avoid over supply.

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