NBA launches GMO awareness campaign in Kakamega

By Newsflash Reporter

The National Biosafety Authority has launched a major public awareness and engagement campaign in Kakamega County aimed at enhancing public understanding of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), modern biotechnology and biosafety regulation in Kenya.

The two-day awareness programme, which begins this week, is being conducted in collaboration with the Kakamega County Government and several government agencies under what officials described as a “One Government approach” to improve service delivery to farmers and the public.

Engagement with students and farmers

The activities kicked off at Bukura Agricultural College where students pursuing agriculture and biotechnology-related courses, lecturers and farmers are expected to engage experts on modern biotechnology and biosafety issues.

The programme will then culminate in a larger public engagement forum scheduled for Thursday and Friday (May 28 and 28, 2026) at Kenya Medical Training College.

The event is expected to attract senior government officials, agricultural experts, scientists and members of the public.

Among the leaders expected to attend are Agriculture Principal Secretary Dr. Paul Ronoh and Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, alongside chairpersons and chief executive officers of state corporations under the Ministry of Agriculture.

According to organisers, the forum seeks to address widespread misinformation and disinformation surrounding GMOs and other emerging biotechnologies while promoting science-based discussions on food security, climate resilience and agricultural transformation.

The awareness campaign is being held under the theme: “Enhancing Public Awareness and Regulation of GMOs in Kenya.”

Addressing misinformation on GMOs

Chairman of the National Biosafety Authority, David Wamatsi, said the institution continues to operate in an environment where public perceptions are heavily influenced by misinformation even as scientific innovation rapidly evolves.

He noted that issues touching on food security, health innovation, climate change adaptation and sustainable development have become increasingly urgent, placing the authority at the centre of national conversations on biotechnology and agricultural productivity.

“We remain committed to promoting biosafety, transparency and meaningful public engagement,” said Mr Wamatsi.

NBA Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ann Karimi said the public forums are intended to deepen public understanding of biosafety and modern biotechnology while enabling Kenyans to make informed decisions based on scientific evidence.

Dr Karimi said the authority is keen on countering misinformation that has continued to generate confusion and fear around genetically modified crops and other emerging technologies.

She added that the initiative also seeks to support Kenya’s broader food security agenda and agricultural transformation efforts through science-driven innovations.