The window for Kenyans to submit their views on the proposed release of genetically modified (Bt maize) closes this Monday, with the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) set to review the feedback before making a final decision.
Public forums held last week in Kakamega, Uasin Gishu, Trans Nzoia, and Machakos counties, along with online submissions, have provided a platform for citizens to voice their opinions on the GM maize, which is engineered to combat fall armyworms and maize stem borers.
Josphat Muchiri, the NBA’s Acting Director of Biosafety Research and Compliance, assured participants that their concerns would be taken seriously.
“As an Authority mandated to regulate these activities, we will ensure that the concerns of all Kenyans are fully addressed by the promoters of this product,” he said during a session hosted by Bunge la Mayut-Kenya.
The application for Bt maize’s commercial release was submitted by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) in November.
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Muchiri explained that the NBA’s evaluation of GM applications involves assessing safety, socio-economic impact, and public input.
"The Authority is mandated to promote public awareness and education on biosafety," he added, underscoring the importance of public participation in the decision-making process.
While Bt maize may offer significant benefits to Kenyan farmers, Muchiri stressed that commercialization would require further approvals, including an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and National Performance Trials.
“Kalro cannot take the maize to farmers until NBA approves it,” he confirmed.
The NBA is committed to transparency and ensuring that any GM product released in Kenya meets the highest safety standards for both people and the environment.
All feedback will be compiled and reviewed before a final decision is made.
