Government lift ban on genetically modified crops

The government has lifted a ban on Genetically Modified Organisms after a ten-year suspension. 

This paves way for farmers to cultivate and import food crops and animal feeds that have been genetically enhanced through biotechnology. 

In a meeting chaired by President William Ruto in State House Nairobi, the cabinet reached the decision in accordance with the recommendation of the Task Force to Review Matters Relating to Genetically Modified Foods and Food Safety, and in fidelity with the guidelines of the National Biosafety Authority on all applicable international treaties including the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (CPB). 

“In accordance with the recommendation of the Task Force to Review Matters Relating to Genetically Modified Foods and Food Safety. The Cabinet today lifted the ban on the cultivation of Genetically Modified crops. It also authorised the importation of food crops and animal feeds produced through biotechnology innovations,” read a statement. 

“As part of the medium to long term responses to the ongoing drought, and as a progressive step towards significantly redefining agriculture in Kenya by adopting crops that are resistant to pests and disease,” it added. 

The decision follows an earlier Cabinet resolution made on December 19, 2019, regarding the commercialisation of Bacillus Thuringiensis (BT) Cotton Hybrids in Kenya. 

The ban imposed in November 2012 restricting the sales of products from United States companies.  

In April, the United States government slammed Kenya for its failure to approve imported genetically modified (GM) foods and crops saying the measure is restricting its exports. 

The US Trade Representative’s office (USTR) said in its annual report approval by Nairobi could boost agricultural purchases from the US by Kenya which is the world’s biggest producer of GMO crops.