When we launched the “GMO FACTS not FEAR” campaign in Kenya, there was significant apprehension due to the politically charged environment. The prevailing public opinion was strongly influenced by the “NO TO GMO” movement, which propagated various unfounded fears, such as the bizarre idea that consuming GMOs could cause men to develop breasts or women to grow beards.
Amidst this climate, our campaign aimed to promote a moderate and fact-based approach. We encouraged Kenyans to seek out facts to support or oppose biotechnology rather than succumb to fear. By urging consumers to critically evaluate information and differentiate between fact and fiction, we sought to foster informed decision-making.
Positive Engagement with Rural Communities
Our campaign extended to rural areas, particularly targeting smallholder farmers whose crops had suffered from issues like late blight. In March 2024, after engaging with potato farmers in Mt. Elgon about the benefits of biotechnology, we saw an immediate demand for GMO seeds. However, we explained the necessity of waiting for biosafety regulator (NBA) approval.
This initial request from one farmer in Mt. Elgon has grown into a widespread demand across various regions. Farmers, now more informed, have moved beyond the myths and lies previously believed about GMOs.
Dispelling Myths and Educating Farmers
One noteworthy interaction involved farmers who believed they had been unknowingly consuming GMO produce for years. During a session in Mt. Elgon, several farmers humorously claimed to have tasted GMO tomatoes, onions, and cabbage, only to learn from us that these crops were not among the officially released GMOs. This revelation underscored the importance of our educational efforts.
As we continue our outreach, we find that more Kenyans are basing their opinions on facts rather than myths. The support from all partners, including research bodies and the Kenyan government, has been instrumental in changing perceptions and fostering acceptance of GMOs and biotechnology.
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Feel free to ask us about anything you wondered, on GMO.