The National Biosafety Authority has urged researchers to strictly follow safety rules during GMO trials to protect health and the environment.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr Ann Karimi made the call during a visit by a delegation from Senegal to KALRO centres in Muguga and Kandara. She stressed adherence to the Biosafety Act of 2009 as Kenya advances biotechnology research.
Trials continue on crops including disease-resistant cassava, late blight resistant potatoes and Bt maize. Dr Martin Mwirigi of KALRO said the goal is to produce climate and pest resilient varieties while safeguarding public health.
Bt cotton has been grown commercially since 2020 with no adverse effects reported through NBA monitoring. Court cases however continue to challenge GMO product distribution after the 2022 lifting of a decade-long ban.