Nairobi, Kenya
July, 2007
Source:
ABNETA
After detailed consultations
between policy makers and key stakeholders in biotechnology, the
government of Kenya has finally published a Bio-Safety bill to
be tabled in parliament for debate beginning July 2007. This is
a significant step in the right direction for a country that
heavily depends on agriculture both for food and income
generation since it brings hope for efficiency in agriculture.
Once the bill is legislated, Kenyans will have an
internationally recognized Bio-safety framework within which to
tap the enormous benefits of biotechnology. Potential benefits
include higher yields and improved crop resistance to pests and
diseases. This may just mark a turning point for millions of
food insecure Kenyan households who may now harvest enough food
from their farms. Biotechnology applications will also enhance
income generation for small holder farmers who contribute over
70% of the country’s agricultural output. |
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