Kenyan bishops join debate on genetically modified organisms | Tech Reddy

Kenya’s Catholic bishops join the debate over the import, consumption and production of genetically modified organisms as the government lifts a ban on hunger.

Bishops are pushing for more scientific research on organisms to ensure their safety when grown or consumed by citizens. In general, the public is poorly informed about organisms and has built myths and stereotypes around science.

“This is an issue that deserves a deep, strategic and careful approach with scientists. We cannot embrace them wholeheartedly without reservation,” said Nyeri Archbishop Anthony Muheria. “We need to discuss the dangers… sometimes they are exaggerated, sometimes they can be contained and reduced. Let’s not just discuss emotions, let’s discuss scientific facts.

The clerics’ call comes as the country struggles to contain a severe drought that has affected nearly 4.5 million people in 23 counties. The food crisis is attributed to several factors, including incessant rains, climate change, recent locust infestations, the war in Ukraine and inflation. According to the UN, the climate-related drought in East Africa was the worst in 40 years.

In October, the new government lifted a decade-old ban on the import, cultivation and sale of GMO crops. Soon, some scientists hailed the move as a response to sustainable food security in the country. But bishops, community and political leaders have expressed concern over what they see as a hasty move.

In mid-November, the government announced plans to import GMO corn. Cabinet Secretary for Trade and Industrialization Moses Kuria said that these imports are necessary to stabilize the country’s food security.

“This is our duty as a government [to save lives]. I know that [importation] will offend some people, but if we lose a few votes here, we will see the kingdom of heaven,” Kuria said.

Muheria, however, urged the official to apologize after he joked that there are many things that kill Kenyans and that GMOs are joining the list.

“It was disgusting and disrespectful… It is not good to joke with death or gamble with the lives of Kenyans like Russian roulette,” Muheria warned.