Nairobi, Kenya, January 14- Mutahi Kagwe, nominee for Agriculture Cabinet Secretary, has vowed to prioritize locally developed genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and impose restrictions on certain imports if appointed.
Speaking during his vetting by the Committee on Appointments, Kagwe emphasized the need to support Kenyan scientists, rejecting the use of Kenyans as test subjects for foreign GMO products.
“GMOs created by our own scientists should be our first line of consideration,” he stated, addressing public concerns over safety. He noted that genetic modification is common in agriculture, citing maize as an example, and assured that any imported GMOs would undergo strict scrutiny to ensure public safety.
Kagwe also revealed credible reports of foreign companies attempting to sell banned or counterfeit products in Kenya and called for increased funding for the National Biosafety Authority to enhance local research. On livestock vaccination, he assured farmers that participation would remain voluntary.
The GMO debate has been contentious, with some accusing the government under President William Ruto of forcing the technology on Kenyans. Kagwe was the first nominee vetted, followed by former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo and former Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui. Parliament will vote on the nominees after the committee submits its report, and successful candidates will be sworn in at the State House.
