Food Security in Africa: The Question Of Genetically Engineered Agricultural Crops (GMOs) - Case Study of Kenya

Many have discussed Africa's food security crisis for decades but little has been done to change the state of affairs. Discussions concerning genetically engineered agricultural crops, otherwise known as genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have emerged after the green revolution that has been witnessed in parts of Asia and Latin America. This new technology has come with a lot of controversy upon which this paper seeks to shed some light. The purpose of this study was to investigate the significance that GMO's will have on Africa's quest towards achieving food security. The perception of the African people towards this new technology was looked into, with a keen focus on Kenya. Finally, this study looked into the implication of Kenya's policies concerning GMOs and its effect on food security. The continuing cases of food insecurity in Africa have made this research even more important as governments seek alternative methods of feeding its people. The study was conducted in Kenya. Both primary and secondary sources of data were utilized. Formal interviews using an interview schedule were conducted on key informants in the field. Self-administered questionnaire were also distributed in order to find out consumers perception in regard to GMOs. Final ly, the paper utilized secondary data from relevant books, journals, newspaper articles and pol icy documents. Indeed, it is safe to note that GM technology can lead to food and nutritional security in Africa. However, the controversy surrounding GMOs has raised questions regarding the present and future relationship between science and society. All over the world, the fears and concerns regarding GMOs health and environmental risk has caused the technology to be slowly adapted especially in developing countries. Genetic engineering of crops as a means towards achieving food security is being considered by various scientists in Kenya. Kenya has made significant progress towards putting into place enabling institutional, policy and legal frameworks to facilitate the development and governance of biotechnology. This has greatly assisted scientist and policy makers under this field to carry out GM projects which are geared towards increasing food productivity in Kenya. A majority (81%) of Kenyan consumers do believe GM crops can lead to food security but are however more concerned about the risk of the technology to their health. This thesis concludes that there is need to facilitate more awareness of this technology to the ordinary people.