GMOs in Kenya

From SourceWatch
Jump to navigation Jump to search

GMOs in Kenya describes market for Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in Kenya, including policies that allow or ban them.

Importation of GMOs for Consumption

In 2010, the Kenyan government approved a law allowing the importation of genetically modified products for consumption, pending the approval of the state-run National Biosafety Authority.[1] The NBA gave the green light in 2011.

First Importation of GE Corn

In 2011, Kenya (along with other nearby African nations) experienced a major drought, resulting in a shortage of corn (maize). At that time, the government dropped tariffs on imported corn to prevent an increase in prices and arranged for a shipment of GE corn from South Africa. GE corn was 30% cheaper than non-GE corn, and Kenya's Cereal Millers Association lobbied hard for the importation of GE corn. The shipment was met with protests organized by the African Biodiversity Network and the Unga Revolution.

Sale of GMOs for Planting

According to Kenyan newspapers, Kenya will have GE maize seeds sold in shops in 2014.[2] The maize is from Water Efficient Maize for Africa. 2014 is also the year Kenyan farmers are expected to gain access to GE Cotton.[3]

Articles and resources

Related SourceWatch articles

References

  1. "Kenyans protest over GM maize imports ," BBC News, July 1, 2011, Accessed July 1, 2011.
  2. Jacob Ng'etich, "Genetic maize seeds set for Kenyan market," Daily Nation, February 23, 2012.
  3. Dennis Odunga, "GM cotton to be in farms by 2014: Kari," Daily Nation, February 27, 2012, Accessed March 27, 2012.

External resources

External articles

2012:

2011:

2010: