- The High Court has temporarily halted the approval and distribution of GMO maize varieties.
- Justice Joe Omido issued the ruling in response to a case filed against KEPHIS and the Ministry of Agriculture.
- The court barred KEPHIS from issuing any approvals for handling or distributing GMO maize.
- Concerns have been raised over the impact of GMO maize on local farmers, indigenous crops, and soil health.
The High Court has issued temporary orders barring the National Biosafety Authority from approving the sale and distribution of genetically modified (GMO) maize varieties in Kenya.
The ruling was made on Thursday by Justice Joe Omido, following a case filed against the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS), the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries, and other respondents.
Court’s Ruling on GMO Maize
In his directive, Justice Omido specifically restrained KEPHIS from approving the introduction of GMO maize varieties in the country.
“An interim conservatory order is hereby issued prohibiting the 1st respondent (KEPHIS) from issuing any approvals for the transfer, handling, and use of genetically modified maize varieties,” the ruling stated.
Concerns Over GMO Introduction
The legal challenge argues that the introduction of GMO maize is a matter of national importance, with critics warning that it could negatively impact local farmers and traditional maize varieties.
Additionally, there are growing fears that GMO maize could affect indigenous crops and degrade soil health, further complicating Kenya’s agricultural landscape.
With the court’s intervention, the fate of GMO maize in Kenya now hangs in the balance as the case progresses.
