Government to roll out GMO awareness campaign in all 47 counties

By Newsflash Writer

The government has announced plans to roll out a nationwide biosafety and biotechnology awareness campaign across all 47 counties as part of efforts to address misinformation surrounding genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and promote science-based agricultural solutions.

Speaking during the National Biosafety Awareness Forum held at KMTC Shianda in Mumias East, Kakamega County last week, Principal Secretary for Agriculture Dr Paul Ronoh said the initiative would empower Kenyans with factual information on biotechnology and biosafety matters while encouraging informed public participation in decision-making.

Dr Ronoh described the forum as a milestone event, noting that it was the first major public awareness campaign organized by the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) since its establishment.

“The Ministry has already approved a national public awareness project for the National Biosafety Authority that will see similar awareness activities rolled out across all the 47 counties,” he said.

Addressing GMO misinformation

The PS said the nationwide programme underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that wananchi, especially those at the grassroots level, have access to accurate and science-based information on modern biotechnology.

He noted that the forum had brought together national and county government officials, scientists, regulators, farmers, traders and members of the public to engage openly on issues relating to biotechnology, GMOs and biosafety regulation.

Dr Ronoh emphasized that public awareness was critical in helping citizens distinguish facts from misinformation and make informed decisions on emerging agricultural technologies.

“Let us ask questions, seek evidence and separate facts from misinformation,” he urged participants.

Biotechnology as a tool for food security

The PS said agriculture remains the backbone of Kenya’s economy but continues to face challenges such as climate change, pests and diseases, rising production costs, declining productivity and increasing pressure on land and natural resources.

According to him, modern biotechnology offers one of the viable solutions to these challenges and can significantly contribute to agricultural transformation.

He noted that many biotechnology innovations are being developed locally by Kenyan scientists and institutions, including the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology and Kenyatta University.

Assurance on safety standards

At the same time, Dr Ronoh assured Kenyans that the government remains committed to ensuring that all biotechnology products and GMO-related technologies undergo rigorous safety assessments before approval.

He said GMO products are subjected to established international safety protocols, scientific evaluations and consultations with relevant government agencies before any decisions are made.

The PS added that the government would continue working closely with the National Biosafety Authority and other regulatory agencies to ensure innovation is guided by safety, accountability and public interest.

He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting farmers through technologies that improve productivity, reduce losses, enhance incomes and strengthen national food security.

Dr Ronoh further called for greater collaboration between national and county governments, researchers, regulators, farmers, private sector players and local communities to drive sustainable agricultural transformation across the country.