(Nairobi) – Kenya’s High Court has upheld the government’s decision to lift the ban on genetically modified organisms (GMOs), dismissing legal challenges that had delayed the move. This decision, finalized on November 7, 2024, has sparked renewed optimism among biotechnology researchers and stakeholders. Scientists, students, and policymakers view the ruling as a significant opportunity to advance genetic engineering, biotechnology, and food security efforts in the country.
Prof. Richard Oduor, Chair of the Kenya University Biotechnology Consortium, described the development as transformative for universities and research institutions. He noted that for over a decade, the ban stifled the potential of students and researchers in fields like molecular biology, genetic engineering, and biochemistry. With the ban lifted, students and institutions can now freely explore these fields and pursue innovations previously restricted.
The ruling has also opened doors for universities to create new biotechnology programs and attract funding from donors to advance research. Prof. Oduor emphasized that increased research and innovation in GMOs could create jobs, foster economic growth, and address food security challenges.
The GMO ban, in place for 12 years, had raised fears about potential risks to health and biodiversity. Opponents also criticized the lack of public participation before lifting the ban. However, the High Court ruled that prior litigations by the Environment and Land Courts had addressed these issues, affirming the government’s regulatory systems as sufficient to ensure biosafety.
Prof. Oduor cautioned that while Kenya can now import GMO products, regulations must ensure that the introduction of such products adheres to ethical and international safety standards. He also urged fellow scientists to actively communicate the benefits and safety of biotechnology to the public to counter misinformation.
The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) has already approved three GMO products: BT cotton, BT maize, and cassava. NBA’s Erick Korir highlighted efforts to ensure public participation in decisions about GMO products. He revealed plans for civic education campaigns to inform the public about GMOs before soliciting feedback.
BT maize, which is awaiting variety registration and release, has been engineered to resist stem borers, pests responsible for significant crop losses. Dr. Joel Ochieng, a senior researcher at the University of Nairobi, explained that this innovation could reduce maize production costs, increase yields, and lower consumer prices. He assured the public that GM products are subjected to stringent safety checks before entering the market.
Kenya’s capacity to develop, regulate, and monitor GMO products is robust, according to Dr. Ochieng. He added that consumers who prefer non-GMO products can rely on labeling regulations for informed choices.
Students in biotechnology programs are particularly excited about the possibilities. Carol Ndegwa, a master’s student in plant breeding and biotechnology at the University of Eldoret, sees the ruling as a pivotal moment for advancing science and food production. She highlighted the environmental benefits of GMOs, such as reduced pesticide use, and called for scientists to better engage the public to demystify genetic engineering.
The ruling aligns with Kenya’s efforts to address a persistent food deficit, which currently stands at 2 million metric tonnes. Dr. Ochieng noted that BT maize could play a key role in bridging this gap by improving productivity and affordability.