Presidency Pushes Mediation to Resolve Kenya's GMO Disputes

By Magdalene Wanja - Reporter

Kenya, 14 January 2026 - The debate over genetically modified organisms (GMOs) has persisted in Kenya for years, fuelling friction among stakeholders across multiple sectors and prompting renewed calls for mediation to ease growing disputes.

The contentious policy area has drawn voices from across the board, particularly following increased disagreements after the government lifted the ban on GMO cultivation and importation in 2022. According to the Secretary for Conflict Management and Peace Building in the Executive Office of the President, Beverley Moss, strengthening mediation and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms within the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) could help resolve conflicts more efficiently and avert costly litigation that has increasingly slowed the regulator’s work.

Moss said training the NBA’s senior management in mediation would enhance the authority’s capacity to manage disputes arising from the evolving GMO policy environment.

“Mediation provides a structured and timely pathway to restore dialogue, protect relationships and preserve institutional mandates,” she said.

The renewed push for mediation comes amid rising legal challenges and public controversy following the lifting of the GMO ban.

Between 2022 and early 2025, several petitions were filed, with courts temporarily halting approvals for GMO maize and related activities, contributing to regulatory uncertainty and delays in biotechnology rollout.

Public participation in proposed GMO products, including Bt maize, has drawn mixed reactions. While regulators held nationwide forums to gather input, critics continue to question the pace, transparency and inclusivity of the process.

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The most recent exercise, which closed in January 2026, was meant to inform the National Biosafety Authority’s evaluation of the crop’s safety, environmental impact and economic viability.

NBA Acting CEO Nehemiah Ngetich said mediation training would help the authority manage growing litigation that has hindered both research and commercial deployment of GMO technologies. Retired High Court judge Muga Apondi also backed mediation, noting it reduces costs, saves time and eases legal backlogs.

Mediation is recognised under Article 159(2)(c) of Kenya’s Constitution as a preferred alternative to litigation.

However, the GMO debate remains deeply polarising, with supporters citing benefits such as improved yields and food security, while critics warn of potential health and environmental risks and call for stronger safeguards and community engagement.