The government of Kenya on Monday lifted the ban on the cultivation of Genetically Modified crops.
It also authorized the importation of food crops and animal feeds produced through biotechnology innovations.
The decision effectively lifts restrictions on the cultivation and importation of GMO crops in the country, which have been in place since 2012.
The decision by the Cabinet, chaired by President William Ruto at State House today, was made in accordance with the recommendation of the Task Force to Review Matters Relating to Genetically Modified Foods and Food Safety.
"In accordance with the recommendation of the Task Force to Review Matters Relating to Genetically Modified Foods and Food Safety, and in fidelity with the guidelines of the National Biosafety Authority on all applicable international treaties, including the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety (CPB), Cabinet vacated its earlier decision of 8th November 2012 prohibiting the open cultivation of genetically modified crops, and the importation of food crops and animal feeds produced through biotechnology innovations; effectively lifting the ban on Genetically Modified Crops. By dint of the executive action, open cultivation and importation of White (GMO) Maize is now authorized," reads the statement from the cabinet office.
The meeting was convened to consider the progress made in response to the ongoing drought in the country.
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