By SHABAN MAKOKHA
May 26, 2026| The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) has kicked off a week-long public awareness and engagement campaign in Kakamega County, aimed at deepening understanding of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and modern biotechnology.
The initiative, delivered under the “One Government Approach,” brings together multiple state agencies to improve service delivery to farmers and the general public.
Activities began at Bukura Agricultural College, where students, lecturers, farmers, and agricultural stakeholders are engaging directly with NBA experts. The outreach will culminate in a two-day public forum on Thursday and Friday at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) in Mumias East—marking one of the largest biosafety events ever held in the region.
The forum will be graced by Agriculture Principal Secretary Dr. Paul Ronoh, Kakamega Governor Dr. Fernandes Barasa, and chairpersons and CEOs of various state corporations under the Ministry of Agriculture. Their presence signals the national importance of the conversation around agricultural innovation, food security, and biosafety.
This year’s theme, “Enhancing Public Awareness and Regulation of GMOs in Kenya,” reflects growing concerns over misinformation and the urgent need to rebuild public confidence in biotechnology.
NBA Board Chairman Mr. David Wamatsi (pictured) said the Authority is operating in a space where inaccurate information often drives public opinion—even as climate change, global food crises, and scientific advances reshape agriculture.
“Questions around food security, climate resilience, health innovation, and sustainable development are becoming more urgent. Kenya’s agricultural transformation and commitment to science-driven solutions place the National Biosafety Authority at the centre of national discourse,” Mr. Wamatsi said. “We remain committed to promoting biosafety, transparency, and meaningful public engagement.”
NBA Acting CEO Dr. Ann Karimi added that the forum is designed to encourage informed, science-based conversations—not speculation.
“Our goal is to enhance public understanding of modern biotechnologies and biosafety; address misinformation and disinformation about GMOs and emerging biotechnologies; and promote informed, science-based discussions that support food security and agricultural transformation,” she said.
Under the Biosafety Act, CAP 320, the NBA is mandated to regulate the transfer, handling, and use of GMOs to protect human, animal, and environmental health. This includes reviewing applications, conducting risk assessments, monitoring compliance, and ensuring responsible use of biotechnology.
Kenya’s biosafety framework is rooted in international law. The country signed the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety in 2000 and ratified it in 2003, designating the NBA as the National Focal Point. The protocol, part of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), provides a global framework for the safe application of biotechnology.
The Kakamega outreach comes as Kenya intensifies efforts to modernize agriculture, boost food production, and harness innovation for climate resilience. The NBA says public participation, transparency, and awareness are essential to deploying these technologies responsibly—and with the confidence of the people.