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This paper examines the relationship between pesticides and agricultural development from a historical perspective. The agricultural economy of Côte d’Ivoire is based on the coffee-cocoa duo, making it an interesting subject to study. From the colonial period to the present day, these two products have been the lifeblood of the Ivorian economy. In order to maintain this key position for almost a century, pesticides have supported the development of their production, not without consequences, and the public authorities have been complicit in this. Indeed, the need for profitability and the need to eradicate parasites and insects capable of jeopardizing coffee and cocoa production led to pesticide use becoming indispensable to the development of the production of these flagship products. Initially unaware of the dangers they posed, thousands of farmers adopted pesticides. In this way, the development of coffee and cocoa production is linked to pesticides. Despite the risks and dangers of misuse, the end of pesticide use is not yet in sight. Due to their rapid effect, farmers have become increasingly dependent upon their use.