NBA determined to deliver on its mandate, ensure safety of GMOs

The National Biosafety Authority has assured Kenyans that it will continue to undertake its mandate of general supervision and control over the transfer, handling and use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in order to ensure safety of human and animal health and adequate level of protection of the environment is provided.

Speaking in Naivasha during a team building exercise for board members and management, acting Chief Executive Officer Mr. Nehemiah Ngetich observed that the Authority is entrusted with a crucial responsibility—to safeguard the interests of the public by ensuring biosafety compliance and upholding the highest standards in its service delivery.

“Through this exercise, I hope we will all gain valuable insights, build stronger bonds, and emerge more committed to our shared vision and goals,” said Mr.Ngetich.

He said the Authority Kenya has regulatory framework which provides for a streamlined process for companies and organizations seeking to import GMOs and its derived products and outlines specific application requirements, safety assessments, and monitoring measures.

“This procedure aligns with Kenya’s commitment to food safety, environmental safeguards and the economic welfare of its citizens,” said the acting Chief executive officer.

 Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe  this month revealed that the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) will not be merged with Kenya Plant  Health Inspectorate Service (Kephis) as initially proposed.

The CS observed that the two entities cannot be merged owing to the international obligations that the country has.

 The Authority is mandated to ensure safety of human and animal health and provide adequate protection of the environment from harmful effects that may result from GMOs.

Kenya signed Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in 2000 and ratified it in 2003 with National Biosafety Authority as the national focus point.

This is an international agreement which aims to ensure the regulation of GMOs to ensure their safety to humans, animals and environment.

The protocol is part of the global convention on biological diversity (CBD) and provides a framework for the utilization of biotechnology while also recognizing   the potential risks that may be posed by the new technologies.

On team building, National Biosafety Authority board chairperson Prof Jenesio Kinyamario underscored the importance of working together.

“Your unwavering commitment, hard work, and team spirit in executing your respective roles will ensure that we release our mandate and succeed in whatever we do,” said Prof Kinyamario.