Experts say Kenya lost Sh20.4 billion by delaying GMO crop adoption over the past five years. A new report highlights economic and environmental losses from postponing approval of safe crops. Scientists assure the public that these crops are safe and urge swift acceptance.
The “Cost of Delay” report, launched recently in Nairobi, was prepared by organizations including BioTrust Innovation, Alliance for Science, AATF, ISAAA Africenter, and CIP. It confirms that delaying adoption of Bt cotton, Bt maize, and late blight-resistant potatoes has cost Kenya dearly. For instance, the Bt maize delay alone cost Sh8.6 billion, potentially yielding 194,000 extra tons of maize—equivalent to 25% of 2022 imports.
Dr. Daniel Kyalo, Chief Policy Manager at AATF, stated: “The amount of money Kenya lost by delaying GMO adoption could have bought over 300,000 tons of maize, enough to feed more than 1.5 million Kenyans.” He blamed foreign NGOs for spreading misinformation that fuels public fear.
Kenya approved Bt cotton in 2020, with farmers cultivating it since 2021, showing effectiveness against the African bollworm. Bt maize has received approvals from NBA, NEMA, KEPHIS, and the Ministry of Agriculture, awaiting cabinet clearance. Trials for potatoes and cassava continue.
The delay stems from court cases challenging the 2022 lifting of a 10-year GMO ban by President William Ruto. Josphat Muchiri from NBA noted Kenya adheres to the Cartagena Protocol and has invested in biotech policies for safety. Professor Richard Oduor from Kenyatta University criticized GMO opponents as misled, noting the technology has been used for over 70 years and is safe.
Across Africa, GMO-cultivating countries rose from three in 2018 to eight in 2024. These crops reduce chemical pesticide use and build resilience against climate change.