Mr. Kenneth Chipere
Recognising the role of pesticide regulators in suicide preventionPesticide regulators: the hidden heroes of suicide prevention
For World Suicide Prevention Day 2026, we celebrate and recognise the important role of pesticide regulators. By limiting access to acutely toxic pesticides – a highly lethal method of suicide – they are making a significant contribution to global suicide prevention.
Name
Mr. Kenneth Chipere
Job role
Principal Research Officer, Fertilizers, Farm Feeds and Remedies Institute, Ministry of Agriculture
Country
Zimbabwe
Summary of activity
Mr. Chipere has played a key role in developing Zimbabwe’s national strategy to mitigate the risks posed by highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs). Through this work, he has identified a highly toxic pesticide linked to numerous cases of poisoning and suicide in Zimbabwe, which is now being considered for a ban.
Why is this work important to you?
"We have the evidence, the tools, and the responsibility to act. Removing highly hazardous pesticides from agricultural systems is one of the most effective interventions we can implement to prevent pesticide-related suicide. This is not just a regulatory decision; it is a moral imperative to protect the lives of our communities and future generations"