New report highlights cost of delay in adopting GM crops in Kenya

A groundbreaking report authored by leading global and African institutions, reveals that Kenya has incurred losses of 157 million dollars due to delays in the adoption of genetically modified (GM) crops.

The report, titled, Genetically Modified Crops in Kenya: The Cost of Delay, was released on November 28, 2024, at the ongoing Kenya Editors Guild annual convention at Sarova Woodlands Hotel in Nakuru.

It demonstrates the transformative potential of GM crops to enhance food security, bolster farmer incomes, and address critical challenges posed by climate change and crop diseases.

The draft report is being shared with the Kenyan media and the public to support broader stakeholder engagement in discussions related to genomic technologies. 

Kenyan farmers face immense challenges due to erratic weather patterns, pests, and diseases. Despite approving GM technology in 2020, Kenya has yet to commercialize Bt maize, Bt cotton, and late blight-resistant potato on a significant scale.

The report estimates that these GM crops could generate 467 million dollars in benefits over the next 30 years, contributing to a more food-secure future for millions of Kenyans. Fortunately, Kenya is now poised to lift its restrictions on the cultivation and importation of GMOs, following a ruling by the High Court that dismissed multiple petitions against the government’s 2022 decision to overturn the 10-year ban.

This decision opens the door for Kenya to join other African nations in adopting GM crops and marks a key step toward advancing agricultural innovation and securing food production in the region.

The report is co-authored by experts from the Breakthrough Institute, the Alliance for Science, ISAAA AfriCenter, the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), and the International Potato Center (CIP), underscoring the critical need for collaborative action in advancing agricultural biotechnology.

Quotes

• Sheila Ochugboju, Executive Director of the Alliance for Science, emphasized the urgency of action, ″Kenyan farmers are battling extreme climate challenges while solutions sit within reach. This report clearly outlines the economic and social benefits that Bt maize, Bt cotton, and biotech potatoes can offer—reducing poverty, improving livelihoods, and ensuring food security.″

• Vitumbiko Chinoko, AATF’s Policy and Advocacy Lead, says ″Modern biotechnology is no longer just an option; it is a necessity for countries like Kenya facing mounting food security challenges. Delays in commercialization are costing farmers and the economy dearly. We must act now.″

• Marc Ghislain, Biotechnology Coordinator at CIP, highlights the impact of biotech potatoes. ″For smallholder potato farmers, late blight disease has been a relentless challenge. Our research shows that adopting biotech potatoes resistant to this disease can reduce losses, lower costs, and improve incomes significantly. It’s a win for farmers and a win for food security.″

• Dr Margaret Karembu, Director of ISAAA AfriCenter, added that ″misinformation and delays in decision-making have hindered the adoption of life-changing innovations. This report demonstrates how timely adoption of GM crops can empower smallholder farmers with the tools to thrive in an unpredictable climate.″

• Dr Emma Kovak, Lead Author, and Food and Agriculture Analyst at the Breakthrough Institute, said: ″Kenya’s adoption of GM crops not only enhances food security but also mitigates deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. It’s a pathway to a sustainable future for agriculture.″

Key findings from the report

• Economic Benefits: Bt maize, Bt cotton, and late blight-resistant potato could create $467 million in benefits over 30 years, with significant gains in farm productivity and incomes.

• Environmental Impact: Adopting Bt maize and Bt cotton could reduce global CO2 emissions by 0.23–0.72 million metric tons annually, equivalent to 17–54 percent of emissions from Kenya’s aviation and shipping industry in 2020.

• Social Outcomes: Increased household incomes from GM crops can improve access to education, reduce poverty, and create new opportunities for vulnerable communities.

Please find the link to the summary and draft report here.