Tree-based biopesticides can boost food security, protect the environment and strengthen Africa’s economy
Forests news
2026.06.17
More than a decade ago, my colleagues and I reviewed the status of botanical pesticides derived from trees and other plant species in sub-Saharan Africa. We found that regulatory barriers and limited investment were holding back a promising sector.
Farmers across the continent had long relied on these plant-based solutions to protect field crops and stored produce from pests because they were affordable, locally available and effective. Nevertheless, they remained largely overlooked by policymakers, investors and industries.
Now, the landscape is changing. Africa’s biopesticides market, currently estimated at USD 195.98 million, is projected to grow to USD 320.3 million by 2031. This growth is driven by increasing demand for pesticide-free foods and products that comply with stringent pesticide-residue standards.
More than a decade ago, my colleagues and I reviewed the status of botanical pesticides derived from trees and other plant species in sub-Saharan Africa. We found that regulatory barriers and limited investment were holding back a promising sector.
Farmers across the continent had long relied on these plant-based solutions to protect field crops and stored produce from pests because they were affordable, locally available and effective. Nevertheless, they remained largely overlooked by policymakers, investors and industries.
Now, the landscape is changing. Africa’s biopesticides market, currently estimated at USD 195.98 million, is projected to grow to USD 320.3 million by 2031. This growth is driven by increasing demand for pesticide-free foods and products that comply with stringent pesticide-residue standards.
Read more here.