Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno calls for stricter pesticide controls

During the 41st CILSS Day on September 12, 2026, Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, President of Chad and current chair of the Permanent Inter-State Committee for Drought Control in the Sahel (CILSS), called for stricter controls on agricultural inputs.

Addressing the theme of regional regulations for agricultural inputs and plant health in the Sahel and West Africa, the President emphasized the need to strengthen pesticide approval and monitoring mechanisms. He warned that increasing agricultural productivity must not come at the expense of public health, animal health, or environmental preservation. The call specifically targets the circulation of non-compliant and fraudulent phytosanitary products.

Déby Itno also highlighted the historical role of CILSS in building regional resilience against droughts and climate change. He noted the organization’s ongoing work in water and energy management, food security, and the integration of regional agri-food markets.