Pesticide Use Safety Practices and Knowledge Gaps Among Small-scale Farmers, Retailers and Healthcare Providers in Tanzania

Introduction: Agriculture is a cornerstone of Tanzania’s economy, with most production driven by small-scale farmers. In efforts to manage pest-related crop losses, pesticide use has increased significantly, heightening concerns related to human health, environmental sustainability, and regulatory compliance. This study examines the knowledge gaps, practices, and systemic factors influencing pesticide risk reduction among small-scale farmers, pesticide retailers, and healthcare providers in five agriculturally significant regions of Tanzania. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Arusha, Iringa, Morogoro, Mwanza, and Shinyanga, purposively selected for their agricultural productivity and diversity. Data was collected via semi-structured questionnaires from 528 farmers, 102 pesticide retailers, and 64 healthcare providers, focusing on pesticide practices, risk reduction knowledge, training, and health outcomes. Multistage sampling ensured diverse representation, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with the R Statistical Package. Results and Discussion Findings revealed considerable regional and demographic variation in pesticide use and risk reduction practices. Most respondents were male (78.7%) and had primary-level education (69.7%), with limited access to pesticide risk reduction training—only 21.9% of farmers reported formal training. Pesticide sellers were more gender-balanced but had uneven training coverage, especially in Mwanza and Shinyanga. Most farmers sourced pesticides from licensed retailers (95%), yet unsafe disposal of empty containers (e.g., leaving on-site or burning) was common, posing environmental hazards. Technical information was mainly acquired from pesticide sellers (53.2%) and product labels (43.8%), while agricultural extension officers played a key but limited role in safety training. Insect pests and fungal diseases dominated as crop threats, driving high insecticide (50.7%) and fungicide (34.9%) use. Healthcare providers reported frequent pesticide exposure cases (58.8%), particularly in Iringa, but 93.5% lacked formal training in managing poisoning incidents. Most healthcare providers faced significant challenges in treating such cases. Conclusions The study reveals significant gaps in pesticide risk-reduction knowledge, training, and practice among smallholder farmers and related sectors in Tanzania. Key recommendations include expanding practical training for farmers and retailers, strengthening regulatory enforcement, improving pesticide waste disposal, and enhancing coordination among government, NGOs, and the private sector. Addressing gender and regional disparities is also essential to ensure inclusive progress. The findings highlight the urgent need for integrated actions to protect human health, the environment, and agricultural productivity.