The SAPToA is a coalition of affected communities, civil society groups, trade unions, and academics dedicated to exposing the dangers of pesticides in South Africa and supporting those impacted by agricultural toxins. According to SAPToA, South Africa is the largest consumer, in the continent, of toxic chemical compounds registered for use in industrial farming.

The Tribunal will be adjudicated by Judge Navi Pillay, Dr Sophia Kisting-Cairncross, and SAHRC Commissioner Philile Ntuli. Experts are expected to give testimony on policy and regulatory issues, health impacts, with particular focus on children, women, people with disabilities, older persons, farm worker’s rights, environmental impacts - particularly on water, and the enabling factors that resulted in the fire at the UPL warehouse in KwaZulu Natal in July 2021. Affected persons and communities will submit testimony on the effect and impact of agrotoxins on their lives and the lives of their families.

On 4 February 2025, the South African Human Rights Commission met with the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture, the Minister of Agriculture, and the Deputy Minister of Agriculture to discuss the Human Rights implications of agricultural pesticides, especially Terbufos.

In its presentation to Parliament, the Commission advocated for the adoption of regenerative agriculture and stronger government action to protect public health. 

The Portfolio Committee noted the SAHRC's proposition that a multi-sectoral task team should be established and allocated a timeframe of six (6) months to conduct the necessary research on available and efficient alternatives to Terbufos and other HHPs, with a view to an effective ban on Turbufos in six months. This process is currently unfolding.

The Tribunal takes place as follows:

• Date: 22 and 23 March 2025
• Time: 08h30
• Venue: Protea Hotel, Stellenbosch, Western Cape
• Youtube Livestream: @SAPeoplesTribunalAgrotoxins

 ENDS

For further information, Mr Wisani Baloyi on 081 016 8308 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Given Makhuvele @ 082 773 4428/ 072 1977 581 (WhatsApp) email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.