The High Court has on Thursday issued interim orders prohibiting the National Biosafety Authority from approving the sale and distribution of genetically modified organism (GMO) maize varieties.
Issuing the orders was Justice Joe Omido in response to a case filed against the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries and two others.
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Justice Joe in particular prohibited KEPHIS from approving the distribution of the modified 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,” read the court ruling
The introduction of GMO varieties in the country has been challenged in court in that it will affect farmers and that it is a matter of national importance.
Fears have also been raised that the introduction of the maize variety may could affect indigenous maize varieties and the soil health.
