Pesticides, Anthropogenic Activities, History and the Health of Our Environment: Lessons from Africa

Abstract

This chapter describes the historical events related to pesticide use. The description of events focuses on human activities that necessitated the use of chemical agents for pest control to protect crops, and animals including humans in African countries. The description covers the common pests in Africa and the need for pest control using pesticides. History of pesticide use in Africa and the ban of organochlorines are covered. Controversies under discussion in Africa and the current trend of pesticide use in Africa are part of the chapter as well as pesticide import and supply. Hazard and risk of exposure of biological organisms including humans to pesticides due to anthropogenic activities in Africa and pros and cons of pesticide use in Africa are covered.