NAIROBI, Kenya – The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) is inviting public comments on a proposal to release genetically modified (GM) maize, known as Bt maize, into the Kenyan market.
This move marks a significant step in the country’s adoption of genetically modified crops, a topic that has sparked heated debate in recent years.
In a statement, NBA disclosed it had received an application from the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF).
The maize, engineered using modern biotechnology, is designed to protect itself against pests like maize stem borers and fall armyworms, which could reduce farmers’ reliance on insecticides and potentially boost crop yields.
The NBA assured Kenyans that rigorous safety assessments are underway to ensure the maize is safe for human and animal consumption.
The evaluation process involves collaboration with other government agencies and biosafety experts to uphold safety standards comparable to those of conventional maize varieties.
Should the application be approved, the maize will undergo further testing in various agroecological zones under the Seeds and Plant Varieties Act, which mandates National Performance Trials (NPTs) for all new crop varieties before they can be grown commercially.
The NBA also pledged to monitor the product post-release to ensure compliance with biosafety regulations.
“The Authority now seeks public input on the proposed environmental release or open cultivation and placement on the market of Bt maize varieties in Kenya,” the notice stated.
Members of the public have been encouraged to submit their feedback through NBA’s official channels, including an email address specifically dedicated to the Bt maize proposal.
The push to adopt genetically modified organisms (GMOs) has long divided opinion in Kenya.
Critics have expressed concerns about potential health risks, environmental impact, and market effects. However, proponents argue that GMOs could help address chronic food insecurity.
The debate gained renewed momentum last month when the High Court cleared the way for GMO cultivation and trade in Kenya, overturning a decade-old ban.
President William Ruto has been vocal in his support for GMOs, dismissing fears as unfounded.
“South Africa and the USA are 100 per cent GMO. Have you heard of anyone growing horns because of consuming GMO?” he quipped during a media interview.
Ruto, who holds a doctorate in plant ecology, insists that the government’s stance on GMOs is rooted in science and a commitment to improving agricultural productivity.
If approved, the introduction of Bt maize could mark a transformative moment for Kenyan agriculture.
This move marks a significant step in the country’s adoption of genetically modified crops, a topic that has sparked heated debate in recent years.
In a statement, NBA disclosed it had received an application from the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF).
The maize, engineered using modern biotechnology, is designed to protect itself against pests like maize stem borers and fall armyworms, which could reduce farmers’ reliance on insecticides and potentially boost crop yields.
The NBA assured Kenyans that rigorous safety assessments are underway to ensure the maize is safe for human and animal consumption.
The evaluation process involves collaboration with other government agencies and biosafety experts to uphold safety standards comparable to those of conventional maize varieties.
Should the application be approved, the maize will undergo further testing in various agroecological zones under the Seeds and Plant Varieties Act, which mandates National Performance Trials (NPTs) for all new crop varieties before they can be grown commercially.
The NBA also pledged to monitor the product post-release to ensure compliance with biosafety regulations.
“The Authority now seeks public input on the proposed environmental release or open cultivation and placement on the market of Bt maize varieties in Kenya,” the notice stated.
Members of the public have been encouraged to submit their feedback through NBA’s official channels, including an email address specifically dedicated to the Bt maize proposal.
The push to adopt genetically modified organisms (GMOs) has long divided opinion in Kenya.
Critics have expressed concerns about potential health risks, environmental impact, and market effects. However, proponents argue that GMOs could help address chronic food insecurity.
The debate gained renewed momentum last month when the High Court cleared the way for GMO cultivation and trade in Kenya, overturning a decade-old ban.
President William Ruto has been vocal in his support for GMOs, dismissing fears as unfounded.
“South Africa and the USA are 100 per cent GMO. Have you heard of anyone growing horns because of consuming GMO?” he quipped during a media interview.
Ruto, who holds a doctorate in plant ecology, insists that the government’s stance on GMOs is rooted in science and a commitment to improving agricultural productivity.
If approved, the introduction of Bt maize could mark a transformative moment for Kenyan agriculture.
