Hesitance to adopt key biotechnologies could compromise Kenya’s food security and leave it paces behind other countries that long took that leap, Prof Shaukat Abdulrazak, The Principal Secretary, State Department for Science, Research, and Innovation.
But the government, in a clear display of supporting agricultural biotechnology, lifted the longstanding ban on GMOs in 2022, albeit to short-lived relief; a succession of court cases would follow, challenging various aspects of that landmark decision.
Addressing a gathering of stakeholders at The Kenya National Theatre on Tuesday, June 3, Prof Shaukat said that the government ‘places a high premium on science, research, and innovation’, and that he would continue lobbying for adoption of helpful technologies.
The scientists, policymakers, farmers, journalists and members of the public congregated to discuss the topic Growing Food and Protecting the Planet.
This dialogue sought to demystify GMOs which, amid rampant misinformation and disinformation, have been frowned upon by those who have never properly understood the technology.
The scientists, some of who have been in agribiotechnology for decades, were on hand to explain, and insist on, the history of safe use of these products.
“Through rigorous research, scientists have demonstrated that several biotech crops – such as genetically modified (GM) cotton, maize and cassava – are climate-resilient and highly productive. These innovations offer promising solutions for enhancing food security and strengthening the resilience of our agricultural systems,” said Prof Shaukat.
Dr Martin Mwirigi, Institute Director Biotechnology Research Institute at KALRO, introduced the gathering to GMOs, fielding questions from an excited crowd which was intent on leaving no stone unturned.
ISAAA AfriCenter Director, Dr Margaret Karembu, spoke about the need for adoption of technology in the face of increasing populations amid climate change.
“There is increasing need for improvement of agri-food systems for a food secure future. New and more virulent crop and animal diseases have emerged over time, wiping out farms, leaving farmers counting huge losses and plunging the country into an abyss of food and feed insecurity,” she said.
She lamented misinformation and disinformation’s role in preventing uptake of key technologies, pointing out a historical pattern of denial of new innovations, which, eventually, proved to be very useful.
Prof Shaukat urged the public to trust the country’s experts, who are constantly trying to improve lives and livelihoods.
“Kenya has brilliant people. Let us listen to them. This is an agenda that is being built by scientists within the country. We should trust in our own. We should continue with this communication in a positive way,” he said
