Dr Lusike Wasilwa during a past interview. She argued there was nothing wrong with GM crops adoption. [Photo/ africareview.com]
Two experts have differed over the proposed adoption of Genetically Modified Crops in Kenya.Whereas Dr Lusike Wasilwa, the Director of Crop Systems Research at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Organisation (Karlo) says there was nothing wrong with GM crops adoption since they have been with us since time immemorial, Prof Ruth Oniango, who is a Food Expert and former Nominated MP said the Kenya needed to conduct more research on GMO technology before its introduction.“There is nothing wrong with Genetically Modified Crops as this has been with us,” Dr Lusike said in her column published by the Standard.“When our parents preserved the best seed to plant in the next season, they were doing genetic engineering. However, genetic engineering should be done as a last option. The technology is very expensive and we should show the need for the technology as it requires billions of shillings to do GMO research. But to ensure that there is enough food for mankind, we have to adopt appropriate technologies that maximise production and yield,” said Lusike.Prof Oniango, however, said GMO’s can’t be the answer to everything but can help where there are issues of adverse climate change.“Such technology is welcome in dry areas where drought resistant crop varieties can help feed the people. Such research should involve the public and farmers so that those who are suspicious of the technology can have their worries addressed,” said Oniango.Oniango said technology takes a long time to implement and as such there was need for Kenyans to return to consuming indigenous foods.“Kenyans should go back to planting sorghum, millet, nuts and traditional vegetables. We should re-introduce the traditional crops because maize has failed to feed all of us.”There has been an unending debate over whether to introduce Genetically Modified Crops in the country to boost crop yields especially in arid areas and subsequently fight food in security.MPs in 2012 shot down a proposed law that allowed for the adoption of GM crops in the country.