The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) is set to host public participation forums across four counties to gather stakeholder input on the proposed release of genetically modified (GM) Bt maize into the Kenyan market. The forums, scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, will be held in Kakamega, Uasin Gishu, Machakos, and Trans Nzoia counties.
NBA Acting Director of Biosafety Research and Compliance, Josphat Muchiri, affirmed the Authority’s commitment to incorporating public feedback into the decision-making process. “We value the input of various stakeholders and are moving across the country to listen to them, including our farmers,” he stated.
Monday’s forums will be held at Magharibi Hall in Kakamega, Machakos Agricultural College in Machakos, and AMS opposite the University of Eldoret in Uasin Gishu. The Trans Nzoia County meeting is scheduled for Tuesday. Senior officials, including NBA Acting CEO Nehemiah Ngetich and Legal Services Director Moses Sande, will preside over the events.
These public engagements are in compliance with the Biosafety Act of 2009 and the Biosafety (Environmental Release) Regulations of 2011. These regulations mandate public notification and consultation upon receiving an application for environmental release or market placement of GM products.
The Bt maize, a genetically modified variety (MON 89034), was developed by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) in collaboration with the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF). The maize aims to combat pests such as fall armyworms and maize stem borers, which have plagued Kenyan farmers.
In addition to public forums, NBA is leveraging print media, social media platforms, and other communication channels to educate the public about GMOs and the biosafety processes. Muchiri emphasized that regulatory approvals such as Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) and National Performance Trials must also be completed before commercialization.
The Authority is working closely with agencies like the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service and the National Environment Management Authority to ensure safety. “We will consolidate feedback from the public, experts, and government agencies to engage the applicant and address raised concerns before making a final decision,” Muchiri assured.
NBA reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of humans, animals, and the environment in line with Kenya’s biosafety regulations. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate actively to contribute to informed decision-making regarding the introduction of Bt maize into the market.
