Turbufos- Plastic bag
The recent spate of child fatalities in South Africa, tragically linked to the misuse of the highly toxic pesticide Turbufos, has sent shockwaves across the nation. This incident underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations and increased public awareness regarding the dangers of unregulated chemical use.
The Terbufos Menace
Terbufos, a potent organophosphate insecticide, was never intended for domestic use. Its primary application lies in agriculture, where it is employed to control pests that threaten crops. However, due to its accessibility and affordability, it has found its way into the hands of unscrupulous individuals who use it in unregulated and often hazardous ways.
Professor Lucia Anelich who is a food hygiene expert and one of the country’s experienced food microbiologists was being interviewed on SABC news this week and said that: “Turbufos was never designed to be used in domestic settings- these are regulated industrial chemicals (producsts) that are used in an illegal and uregulated manner”. Aldicarb another pesticide (which was banned for used in 2006) was also confiscated at a Johannesburg mall. Four men were subsequently arrested for selling among other things fertilizer, farm feed, agricultural remedy, stock remedy which were not registered.
The Deadly Toll
The tragic consequences of Terbufos poisoning have been laid bare, with multiple child fatalities reported in recent months. These young lives were cut short due to exposure to this deadly chemical, often through contaminated food or household items.
The Role of Spaza Shops
Many of these cases can be traced back to spaza shops, small informal retail stores that are ubiquitous in South African townships. The unregulated sale of hazardous chemicals, including Terbufos, poses a significant threat to public health, particularly to vulnerable populations such as children. It can easily be sourced from street vendors
Government Intervention
Minister of Health, Dr Arron Motsoaledi, confirmed this week that all 6 children in who died due to poisoning in Soweto were killed by the Turbufos. In response to this crisis, the South African government has taken steps to address the issue. A recent directive mandates the registration of all spaza shops within a 21-day period. Failure to comply with this regulation could result in the closure of these businesses. While this is a positive step, it is imperative that the government also implements stringent measures to prevent the sale of hazardous chemicals in these establishments.
A Call to Action
To prevent future tragedies, it is crucial to take the following steps:
- Stricter Regulations: The government must enact and enforce stricter regulations on the sale and use of hazardous chemicals, particularly in non-agricultural settings.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Public awareness campaigns should be launched to educate the public about the dangers of pesticide poisoning and the importance of safe chemical handling.
- Increased Enforcement: Authorities must increase enforcement efforts to identify and penalize individuals and businesses that violate chemical safety regulations.
- Support for Safe Alternatives: The government should promote the use of safer, non-toxic pest control methods and provide incentives for farmers and consumers to adopt these practices.
- Community Engagement: Community organizations and health workers should be involved in educating the public and providing support to affected communities.
As Zitholama we urge our communities to make use of professionals for pest control and ensure they buy and make use of pesticides approved for domestic settings. For all your pest control needs contact Zitholama, and lets all work together to protect the future, our children.
