Laboratory tests have identified Terbufos, a highly toxic pesticide, as the chemical responsible for the recent deaths of several children across South Africa. Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen announced on Thursday that the substance was imported from a neighboring country, with no evidence suggesting it was produced locally.
Terbufos, commonly used in agriculture to combat insect pests, is strictly regulated in South Africa. Only five authorized companies are permitted to manufacture and distribute it within the country.
Steenhuisen addressed the issue during a media briefing, stating that the locally produced Terbufos does not match the substance illegally sold in Johannesburg:
“It is my view and opinion, and I imagine it will be confirmed shortly, that the Terbufos found in South African spaza shops does not originate from local manufacturers. The color and texture of the illegal product differ significantly from those of locally produced Terbufos.”
The pesticide was discovered being sold unlawfully at a shopping center in Johannesburg, where some spaza shop owners admitted to purchasing it. Despite its restricted use for agriculture, the chemical made its way into informal retail markets, with deadly consequences.
The Department of Agriculture has initiated inspections of the country’s five authorized Terbufos production facilities to ensure compliance and rule out any unauthorized distribution. Authorities are also investigating how the imported pesticide entered the country and reached informal traders.
The incident highlights the dangers of unauthorized pesticide sales and the urgent need for stricter enforcement of import and distribution regulations.
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