Biotech Updates

Perception, Awareness, and Knowledge on GM Technology Influence Acceptance in Kenya

March 2, 2012

Adoption of biotech crops is expected to help alleviate hunger in Kenya, however, the attitudes and perceptions of stakeholders could affect the acceptance of the products. Kenneth Kinuthia Kagai from the University of Tsukuba assessed the perceptions on GM crops and foods of 179 respondents (55 farmers and 124 consumers) from Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya.

Results of the survey showed that the respondents' perceptions influenced their approval to use biotech crops. Factors such as basic knowledge on GM technology and access to information influence farmers' acceptance of the technology. Consumers with knowledge about the technology and government policies on GM crops are more likely to approve the technology than those who lack knowledge on GM technology.

Read more about the results of the study at http://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jdsa/6/2/6_164/_article.