From 16-20 October 2006 over 200 scientists, researchers, regulators and non-government organisations gathered in Arusha, Tanzania, at an international scientific conference on pesticides, the environment and public health in developing countries1. While participants broadly acknowledged the contribution that pesticides make to food security, public health and migratory pest control, they also expressed significant concerns about pesticide impacts, particularly where resources for control are limited. They highlighted the inadequate resources for African scientists in particular to conduct systematic studies for monitoring and surveillance on the effects of pesticide use on health and the environment.

A number of presentations focused on the proposals to increase the use of DDT for malaria-vector control in Africa. Dr Bornman from the University of Pretoria presented evidence to suggest a link between hypospadias and cryptorchidism, male uro-genital anomalies that seem to be on the increase in areas where DDT has been used. Several presentations addressed problems of obsolete pesticides. Results of a 2004 study in Sudan found 1264 tonnes of POPs pesticides, 10,000 tonnes of contaminated soil and 740 tonnes of containers. The African Stockpile Programme presentations and posters provided progress reports, and addressed questions about its project operations, disposal technology, and prevention. Overall, 150 contributions presented toxicological, scientific and research-based evidence to enable discussions on pesticide impacts on public health, the environment and wildlife in developing countries. Papers ranged from pesticide residues and trade to benefits of biomarkers, and from integrated pest management to preventing problems associated with pesticides throughout the life cycle stages of import, distribution, storage, use and disposal.

The reality of pesticide research, regulation and control in Africa underpinned many of the presentations, and the need for improved resources and infrastructure on the continent was widely acknowledged. African scientists and researchers face problems of under-equipped laboratories for testing pesticide impacts; lack of access to up-to-date publications; and shortage of funds to participate in international conferences. They urgently need stronger links for exchanging information on pesticide analysis within the continent. (BD)