NAIROBI, Kenya- The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) is taking a significant step forward in introducing genetically modified (GM) Bt maize to Kenya.
The Authority has announced a series of public forums to gather feedback from stakeholders and citizens, ensuring the decision-making process is as inclusive as it is transparent.
Starting next week, the NBA will host public engagement sessions in Kakamega, Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, and Machakos counties.
These forums are part of the mandated process outlined in the Biosafety Act, 2009, and the Biosafety (Environmental Release) Regulations, 2011, which require comprehensive consultations before GM products can be commercially released.
The genetically modified maize, known as MON 89034, was developed by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF).
It promises to combat two major pests—fall armyworms and maize stem borers—that have long plagued Kenya’s maize farmers.
Josphat Muchiri, NBA’s Acting Director of Biosafety Research and Compliance, underscored the importance of these consultations.
“This initial public consultation is to inform the Authority in the biosafety approval process. Future engagements will occur during subsequent stages, such as Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and National Performance Trials,” Muchiri said.
To ensure a balanced approach, the NBA is collaborating with key organizations like the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
Feedback will be collected from print and social media, as well as in-person forums, before a decision on Bt maize commercialization is made.
This isn’t the NBA’s first venture into genetically modified crops. Bt Cotton, commercially cultivated since 2020, has been closely monitored for environmental and health impacts with no adverse effects reported.
Other GM crops, including Virus Resistant Sweetpotato and biofortified sorghum, are also progressing through confined field trials.
Bt maize represents another stride toward addressing Kenya’s agricultural challenges, such as pest infestations that cripple maize production. However, the NBA remains firm in its commitment to biosafety, emphasizing that any GM product approved for commercialization will meet stringent health and environmental standards.
The NBA’s transparent approach, marked by public consultations and rigorous oversight, seeks to balance progress with safety.
