Court dismisses case challenging GMO maize; President Ruto stresses safety

Kenya's Environment Court has rejected a legal challenge against the release and cultivation of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) maize in the country. The court's decision cited a lack of evidence demonstrating harm to human health or the environment due to GMO usage.

Following the ruling, President Ruto emphasized the safety of genetically modified products, noting that they posed no health risks. He highlighted that many imported foods contain GMOs, emphasizing that the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) allows up to 1% GMO content, which helps lower import costs.

President Ruto, who has a scientific background, countered concerns by stating that countries like South Africa and the USA have widely adopted GMOs without adverse health effects.

However, Civil Society groups filed a petition seeking to overturn Ruto's decision, arguing that the government had not presented sufficient evidence to prove the safety of modified crops. The High Court initially ruled in favor of the civil society groups, leading to a temporary ban on GMO maize importation and distribution, noting the need for stronger evidence of safety.

This case underscores the ongoing debate about the safety and benefits of GMOs in Kenya, with scientific, economic, and public health considerations in play.

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