By Augustine Aminu with agency reports
Kenya on Tuesday lifted a ban on genetically modified crops in response to the worst drought that affected the East African region in 40 years.
Authorities said they hoped that this development would improve crop yields and food security.
Over the last four years, the annual rains had failed across Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia, forcing 1.5 million people to flee their homes in search of food and water elsewhere.
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A statement by President William Ruto’s office after he chaired a cabinet meeting described lifting the ban as part of responses to the drought.
Cultivation and importation of genetically modified white maize wss now authorised, the statement said.
“Cabinet vacated its earlier decision of 8th November, 2012 prohibiting the open cultivation of genetically modified crops and the importation of food crops and animal feeds produced through biotechnology innovations.
“The cabinet has effectively lifted the ban on Genetically Modified Crops,” the statement read.
It said Kenya’s cabinet had considered expert and technical reports on biotechnology, including by United Nations agencies the World Health Organisation and Food and Agriculture Organization, in making its decision.
