The government is set to allow for the importation of Genetically Modified organisms (GMO) maize following an announcement by Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria.
In a statement dated Thursday, November 17, the CS indicated that he would sign various authorizing documents to allow for the importation of the maize.
Upon authorisation, various importers will have the opportunity to import the GMO maize for a period of six months.
Additionally, the maize will be imported duty free.
Kuria explained that the move was aimed at addressing the ongoing drought that has seen a section of Kenyans die because of hunger as millions face acute starvation.
The directive will also apply to imported non-GMO maize.
“In view of the food situation in the country, I shall be signing instruments to allow duty-free imports of GMO for the next six months,” he announced.
However, the CS did not indicate the exact date the directive will commence.
The announcement by the CS comes weeks after Cabinet ratified the ban on GMO foods that had been imposed during President Mwai Kibaki's regime.
“Cabinet vacated its decision of November 8, 2012, prohibiting the open cultivation of genetically modified crops and the importation of food crops and animal feeds produced through biotechnology innovations.
“By dint of the executive action open cultivation and importation of white (GMO) maize is now authorised.” read a statement by Cabinet.
The reintroduction of GMO foods has faced resistance with Azimio leader Raila Odinga raising health concerns regarding the matter.
"The main reason, European countries denied it is because of health concerns. I hear they wanted to do research. Which research will they do? We have rejected it. We must stand up and say no to GMOs," the ODM boss stated then.
