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Suppose the Authority approves the environmental release and open cultivation of the Bt maize. In that case, further testing shall be conducted to evaluate its performance under different maize-growing zones in Kenya in accordance with the Seeds and Plant Varieties Act, which mandates that all new crop types undergo testing in National Performance Trials before farmers can grow them.
The push for the adoption of Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) food products is on course as the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) says it has received an application for environmental release or open field cultivation, and placing on the market of genetically modified maize.
The application for the commonly known as Bt maize (MON 89034), was jointly submitted by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF).
The Bt maize has been developed using modern biotechnology methods to protect itself against specific pests such as the maize stem borers and fall armyworms, which are devastating pests in maize fields.
As a result, farmers can expect less damage to their maize crop, which may lead to increased harvests and better-quality grains. This could also lower production costs and reduce risks to health and the environment by using fewer insecticides used for pest management.
He said other evaluations being undertaken include socio-economic impact assessments related to the Bt maize varieties. If the Authority approves the environmental release and open cultivation of the Bt maize, further testing shall be conducted to evaluate its performance under different maize-growing zones in Kenya in accordance with the Seeds and Plant Varieties Act, which mandates that all new crop types undergo testing in National Performance Trials before farmers can grow them.
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https://trendsnafrica.com/kenyan-cabinet-gives-approval-for-gmo-products/
During the 41st Full Board Meeting held on 15th June 2021, The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) approved the application for environmental release of genetically modified (GM) cassava.
