GMOs: Kenya Set to Lead in Regional Biotech with New Molecular Lab
By Duncan Mboyah
Kenya is building a regional reference molecular lab aimed at assisting Eastern African nations in managing and utilizing Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).
Dr. Kipronoh Ronoh, who serves as the Principal Secretary at the State Department for Agriculture under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, stated that this lab will oversee the movement of genetically modified organisms across the area.
"The laboratory aims to enhance the safety of both human and animal health as well as ensure proper environmental safeguards when adopting genetically modified organisms within the Eastern African region," Ronoh stated at the unveiling of the national Biosafety Authority strategy for 2023–2027 in Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya.
Dr. Ronoh stated that Kenya possesses a strong legal framework, effective regulations, and solid institutions capable of guaranteeing the safety of GMOs and their resulting products.
He stated that the strategic plan clearly mirrors the government’s dedication to ensuring both human and animal health, protecting the environment, and promoting responsible advancement in contemporary biotechnology.
Dr. Ronoh further noted that Kenya has intensified efforts to use contemporary biotechnological methods to boost agricultural output as part of enhancing food and nutritional security.
Nehemiah Ngetich, who leads the National Biosafety Authority (NBA), highlighted that Kenya follows the guidelines laid out by the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, along with adhering to the Biotechnology Policy, the Biosafety Act, and a series of Biosafety Regulations. He also mentioned compliance with global safety assessment criteria.
He stated that the strategy aims to place Kenya in an advantageous position for supporting the nation’s goal of emerging as a significant player in the international biotechnology sector.
Professor Jenesio Kinyamario, who serves as the chairperson of NBA, mentioned that Kenya has set up a facility for genetically modified organism (GMO) tests and has also authorized the cultivation of GM cotton. This crop is currently being grown in roughly twenty counties throughout the nation, yielding beneficial outcomes for local populations.
He additionally mentioned that the country in Eastern Africa has sped up the decentralization of services to six border towns and intends to establish another six border offices by 2027.
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