Economic analysis of strengthening the governance of pesticide management in Uganda’s agriculture sector

Abstract

In this study we seek to compare the benefits and costs of strengthening the regulatory framework for pesticide management in the agriculture sector. Strengthening of chemical use in the country is in line with the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management. The costs of the actions proposed to improve pesticide use in the agriculture sector are weighed against the expected benefits. The net present values and benefit cost ratios are computed for a period spanning 15 years. Results showed that strengthening the governance of pesticide management has potentially huge economic, social, human health and environmental quality benefits. This is highlighted by the huge difference between estimated monetized social and environmental benefits and the costs of investments proposed for sound management of chemical in the sector.

Keywords

• Pesticides
• Fertilizers
• herbicides
• Net present value
• Benefit-cost ratios