Occupational Pesticide Exposure Risks and Gendered Experiences Among Women in Horticultural Farms in Northern Tanzania

Over the past few decades, women's participation in horticulture has become increasingly apparent across Africa. Women perform physically demanding agricultural work—on family farms, as hired laborers, or as paid workers on other farms. To increase yield and protect crops, pesticides are used, yet the health risks faced by these women remain under-researched. This study aimed to explore pesticide exposure risks, gender roles, and awareness among women working on horticultural farms in northern Tanzania. A qualitative exploratory case study was conducted in 2023, in four villages, with four focus group discussions. Data were transcribed and thematically analyzed. Fifty women participated, with mean age 39 years and mean work experience 10 years, 70% were married and 80% had primary education. Six themes emerged: gendered division of labour, training and awareness, health effects, storage and disposal practices, protective measures, and resilience. Pesticide spraying was typically performed by men, although poor or unmarried women also undertook this task. Women had limited access to training on safe pesticide handling, and protective gear was rarely used. Despite awareness of potential health risks, economic necessity and prevailing gender norms compelled them to continue work where pesticide exposure occurred. Gender-sensitive interventions are urgently needed to address these issues.