Gov't seeks public opinion before releasing GMO maize to the market

The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) has invited the public to submit their comments on the proposed release of Genetically Modified Maize commonly known as Bt maize into the market.

In a notice, NBA acknowledged receiving an application jointly submitted by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) for releasing the maize into the market. 

The Authority explained that it was assessing the GMO maize to ensure its safety for human and animal consumption.

This process is in collaboration with other government agencies and biosafety experts to ensure it is as safe as other maize varieties grown by farmers. 

If approved, NBA shall further test the product to assess how it performs under different agroecological maize growing zones in Kenya.

This will be in line with the Seeds and Plant Varieties Act which dictates that all new crops undergo mandatory variety testing in National Performance Trials (NPTs) before farmers can grow them.

In addition, the Authority shall also monitor the product upon release into the market to ensure compliance with Biosafety laws.

In the application, KALRO explained that Bt maize was developed using modern biotechnology methods to protect itself against specific pests such as maize stem borers and fall armyworms.

Farmers can also expect less damage to their maize crops, leading to increased yields and lower health risks by using fewer insecticides for pest management.

"Before making a decision on the application, 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 read in part.

Members of the public are required to submit their comments to NBA's postal address or through email btmaize@biosafetykenya.go.ke.

The proposed application comes after the High Court's verdict last month whereby Justice Lawrence Mugambi gave the nod for GMO rollout in the country. 

Growing GMO products in Kenya has elicited debates in the past with critics raising health and safety concerns associated with the crops. 

In contrast, President William Ruto's administration has heaped support on GMOs, arguing that it would be the solution to food shortage across the country.

“South Africa and the USA are 100 per cent GMO. Have you heard of anyone growing horns because of consuming GMO?” Ruto posed during a joint media interview last year.

“I am a scientist, I would not endanger the lives of those who elected me,” he added.