Public Perception of Genetically Modified Organisms and the Implementation of Biosafety Measures in Kenya

Abstract

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are an important nexus of biotechnology, agriculture, and research. GMOs have gained popularity because of their potential to address global food insecurity. However, the widespread adoption of GMOs has sparked debates and controversies. This study collected data on the threats and effects of the GMO ban and the status of implementation of Biosafety Act and Cartagena Protocol on biosafety in Kenya. A cross‐sectional survey was used with 216 participants sampled purposively and 16 key informants interviewed in a qualitative survey with triangulation of data from a scoping literature review. Fifty‐seven percent of the respondents indicated GMOs and genetically modified (GM) foods are a solution to food security in Africa. A majority believe that the introduction of GMO technology and the use of GM food is beneficial (52.3%). Fifty‐five percent of the respondents indicated that GM foods are safe. Most respondents (>90%) indicated that there is a low threat of GMO technology on the environment, human health, and animal health. The respondents (54.3%) agreed there is good adherence to the Cartagena Protocol. The correlation between awareness of the Cartagena Protocol on biosafety and views on whether there are adequate legal and regulatory frameworks was r = 0.4, indicating a weak but positive relationship between the two. Respondents who reported that the legal and regulatory frameworks were adequate were, therefore, likely ( r = 0.4) to be aware of the Cartagena Protocol. There was a moderate positive correlation ( r = 0.67) on views that GM food is a solution to food insecurity. Understandably, the relationship between GM food health concerns and GM food as safe was moderately negative ( r = −0.4591). The findings are important in addressing gaps in the current GMO regulations and implementation aimed at increasing awareness of GMO technology as well as informing policy on biotechnology.