Kenya’s National Biosafety Authority Opens Public Comments on the Proposed Environmental and Market Release of Bt Maize

The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) in Kenya invites the public to comment on the proposed environmental release and placing on the market of Bt maize (MON 89034). This application is submitted by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF).

Bt maize is a genetically modified (GM) crop developed to be resistant to pests, including maize stem borers and fall armyworms, which are among the devastating pests in maize fields. The application documents indicate that farmers cultivating Bt maize can benefit from reduced crop damage, leading to higher yields and improved grain quality. This technology could also lower production costs and minimize health and environmental risks by reducing the use of insecticides for pest management.

In line with the requirements of Kenya's Biosafety Act of 2009, the Authority is evaluating Bt maize in collaboration with other government agencies and biosafety experts to ensure its safety for human and animal health and the environment. If approved, the Authority will conduct additional testing to evaluate the agronomic performance of Bt maize and implement post-commercialization monitoring to ensure compliance with biosafety regulations.

Before concluding the review of the application, the Authority is inviting the public to submit their comments on the proposed environmental release or open cultivation and placement on the market of Bt maize varieties in Kenya. The deadline for submission of comments is January 5, 2025.

Read the public notice from the NBA or visit their website for more details on how to submit comments.