The Lift of GMO Ban by Cabinet On Point- Kenyan Scientists
Kenyan scientists have backed the lifting of the ban on genetically modified foods GMO saying it will enhance food security in the country.
According to Dr Erick Magembe, a biotechnology scientist, farmers will be able to increase food production in the country through the adoption of the scientific methods.
“It will be a relief for farmers and Kenyans as there will be increased food production. As scientists, we expect that the farming of other crops such as potatoes, cassavas and bananas which are produced bio technologically will be
adopted by our farmers,” said Dr Magembe.
Dr Douglas Mieno, a lecturer at the university of Nairobi and the principal investigator of virus resistant cassava, says the lifting of the ban is not only a benefit to the farmers but also a morale boost for the scientist as they will be motivated to venture into research of how to increase production of other crops.
“We have worked hard as scientists to ensure that our farmers are able to get high quality seeds. We look forward to doing more and ensure that such good news will be coming to more sectors.” said Dr Mieno.
In the year 2012, the ban on GMO foods was introduced by the then Minister of Public Health, Beth Mugo, on grounds of safety concerns. The ban was supported by the Kenya Medical Research Institute.
However, during a cabinet meeting on 3 rd October, chaired by president William ruto, the ban was lifted.
In East Africa, Kenya joins Sudan and Uganda in lifting the ban on production and importation of genetically modified crops.
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