Is GMO maize an innovation or a risk to health and farmers?

The Environmental and Lands Courts, led by Justice Oscar Angote, made a landmark decision in October 2023, allowing the reintroduction of Genetically Modified (GM) maize, specifically BT maize, into Kenya’s food chain. This development warrants  careful consideration.

From a nutritional standpoint, I am concerned about the potential health, environmental, and socio-economic implications of this decision. While supporters argue that GM crops could address food insecurity and improve agricultural efficiency, a closer examination of evidence from countries like the United States and Europe raises crucial questions about potential risks and long-term effects. Moreover, the organizations driving the legalization and cultivation of these crops raise ethical concerns that must not be overlooked.

My primary worry is the lack of long-term studies on the potential health consequences of consuming GMO maize. The majority of research on GMOs has been industry-sponsored, raising concerns about bias and transparency. Independent, long-term studies are crucial to assess the potential impact of GMOs on human health, particularly on the gut microbiome, allergenicity, and chronic diseases.

A 2015 study published in the International Journal of Food Microbiology linked regular consumption of glyphosate, a common herbicide used with GMO crops, to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the gut. This raises serious public health concerns, as antibiotic resistance is already a growing global threat.

Furthermore, a 2013 review published in Food and Chemical Toxicology highlighted potential allergenic reactions associated with GMO consumption, particularly for individuals with pre-existing allergies. The introduction of novel proteins through genetic modification could trigger unforeseen allergic responses. The impact of genetically modified crops on human health is a pressing concern for many stakeholders. While supporters claim that GM foods are safe, the evidence remains inconclusive.

Concerns extend beyond the gut microbiome. Some studies have raised concerns about the impact of GMOs on organs and systems. For example, a 2012 study in Journal of Organic Systems suggested potential liver and kidney damage in rats fed a GMO maize diet. However, these findings are preliminary and require further investigation.

It’s important to acknowledge that not all GMOs are created equal. The specific genetic modifications and the associated environmental and agricultural practices play a crucial role in determining the potential risks and benefits. However, the lack of long-term, independent research makes it difficult to assess the safety of specific GMO varieties currently under consideration in Kenya.

Critique of Western practices 

The United States and Europe, often championed as paragons of agricultural biotechnology, have a problematic track record with GMOs. The overreliance on herbicide-tolerant GMO crops has led to the proliferation of glyphosate-resistant weeds, necessitating the use of even stronger herbicides. This creates a vicious cycle of increasing herbicide resistance, posing a significant environmental threat.   

The GMO seed industry is dominated by a few multinational corporations, raising concerns about control and access. These corporations prioritize profit, potentially leading to unfair pricing and limiting access to diverse seeds for Kenyan farmers. This concentration of power can stifle innovation, limit farmer choice, and exacerbate inequalities in the agricultural sector.

In the United States, where GM crops have been prevalent for decades, there has been a rise in food-related health issues such as allergies, gastrointestinal disorders, and autoimmune diseases. While causation has not been definitively established, the correlation cannot be ignored. In contrast, European countries such as Germany, France, and Austria have taken a precautionary approach, banning GM crop cultivation due to insufficient safety evidence.

The absence of comprehensive, independent research on the long-term effects of consuming GM foods is particularly concerning for Kenya. Our population is already vulnerable to a range of health challenges, including malnutrition, obesity, and noncommunicable diseases. Introducing GM maize without thorough evaluation could exacerbate these problems, placing an additional burden on our healthcare system.

The environmental impact of GM crops is another critical concern. Studies have shown that the cultivation of GM crops can lead to biodiversity loss, soil degradation, and the emergence of superweeds resistant to herbicides. Research in the United States revealed that over-reliance on herbicide-tolerant GM crops has resulted in herbicide-resistant weeds, necessitating the use of stronger and potentially more harmful chemicals.

Kenya, with its rich biodiversity and reliance on agriculture, cannot risk the ecological balance of its environment. The introduction of GM maize could disrupt local ecosystems, affecting plant life and the insects and animals that depend on them. This could have cascading effects on food chains and agricultural productivity.

Socio-economic implications

The adoption of GM crops poses profound implications for Kenya’s small-scale farmers, who form the backbone of the nation’s agricultural sector. In countries like India, GM cotton initially increased yields but later trapped farmers in cycles of debt due to rising seed and input costs. Similarly, Kenyan farmers could become dependent on expensive patented seeds and agrochemicals from multinational corporations, undermining their autonomy and resilience.

Organizations like AATF and the Gates Foundation have played a role in promoting GM crops in Kenya. While they champion food security, their partnerships with biotech giants raise ethical concerns, as corporate interests in expanding GM markets often overshadow the sovereignty of African nations.

Globally, countries like Russia take a cautious approach to GMOs. With stringent regulations, Russia prohibits the cultivation of genetically engineered crops, focusing instead on “clean” agricultural practices that prioritize public health and environmental sustainability. Kenya could draw lessons from this model by placing greater emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices over corporate-driven GM solutions.

Countries such as Brazil and India demonstrate how innovation can coexist with sustainability. Brazil’s integrated farming systems combine modern technology with traditional practices, boosting productivity while preserving biodiversity. India supports agroecological practices with subsidies for organic fertilizers and community seed banks, empowering farmers to adopt sustainable methods without compromising health or cultural heritage.

Independent Research: The government must commission long-term, independent studies to assess the health and environmental impacts of GM crops, ensuring transparency and involvement of local researchers.

Stronger Regulation: The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) should enforce stringent rules on GM crop cultivation and mandate the labeling of GM foods to ensure consumer choice.

Sustainable Practices: Investing in agroecological farming—such as crop diversification and organic methods—can enhance food security while protecting the environment.

Farmer Rights: Safeguard small-scale farmers from exploitation by biotech firms and ensure access to affordable, locally adapted seeds.

Public Participation: Engage all stakeholders—scientists, farmers, and consumers—in transparent dialogue about GMOs. Public education is vital to empower citizens with informed choices. Kenya faces a critical decision that will shape its agricultural future. By prioritizing public health, sustainability, and farmer autonomy, Kenya can build a resilient food system that benefits everyone.

George Omollo is the Founder and President of the Kenya Nutrition and Dietetics Students Association (KENDSA). Email: [email protected]