GMO FOOD IN KENYA

Raila Criticized over his stand on GMO food products

Raila on Sunday, 20th November 2022 called the government to reverse the decision on GMO foods. This comes few days after opening of Kigoto Maize millong plant in Homabay where Raila was present too.

Many high profile government officials have Criticized Raila remarks on lifting of GMO foods.However, Raila, had in 2011 defended the use of genetically modified foods.

In October this year, the government opened the gates for the importation and use of GMO.Trade CS Moses Kuria said the government has allowed importation of GMO and non-GMO maize into the country for 6 months.

With many criticizing Raila, others have supported the ban of GMO products led by Kirinyaga women representative.

Winnie Odinga, Raila's daughter who is East Africa Legislation Assembly (EALA) is now rallying the East African Community to unite against the introduction of genetically modified foods in the region. She further said GMO foods are not healthy for human consumption.

Pros and cons of GMO

According to Medical News today, this are cons and pros of GMO foods.

Pros

• Increased attractiveness to consumers.
• Enhanced flavor.
• Longer shelf life.
• Greater resistance to viruses and other diseases.
• Greater tolerance to herbicides.
• Greater resistance to insects.
• Increased nutritional value.
• Ability to thrive in harsh climate.
• Ability to grow in salty soils.

Cons

• Allergic reactions when consumed.
• Eating GMO foods can contribute to the development of cancer.
• In theory, genes from these plants could enter humans when they eat them and could develop antibiotic resistance.
• Change in human DNA.
• Toxicity for body organs.

Types of common GMO foods

The following are the most common GMO crops produced

• sugar beet
• Canola
• corn
• potato
• summer squash
• soybean
• papaya
• apple
• alfalfa