Farmers lose GM food challenge in Kenya

(BBC) A group representing small-scale farmers in Kenya has lost its court battle to stop genetically modified (GM) food being imported or grown in the country.

The judge ruled that there was a lack of evidence to show that GM technology harmed humans or the environment, and said that Kenya had “put in place a robust framework with inbuilt structures” to keep people safe.

The case had been filed by Kenyan lawyer Paul Mwangi and a lobby group, the Kenya Peasants League.

Last year, Kenya lifted a 10-year ban on maize, amid resistance from farmers and campaign groups.

It meant farmers could now openly cultivate GM crops, including the staple maize, as well as import GM-produced food and animal feeds.

The move was however suspended following the court case on grounds that the ban was un-procedural and unlawful. The petitioners also argued that GM products posed a health risk to Kenyans, especially the poor.

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