Lifting GMO ban is good, says Kirinyaga Woman Rep

Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina has hailed government's  move to reintroduce GMO foods after a ten year ban.

Maina said the time is ripe for Kenya to tap into GMO foods as an alternative to combat starvation due to the ongoing drought.

Speaking on Sunday, the county MP reiterated the need for  civic education to enlighten Kenyans over the safety of GMO foods.

Maina spoke in South Ngariama in Mwea during the distribution of foods to families affected by drought. More than 4,000 families have since benefited from the programme.

She said the country is undergoing one of the worst drought in forty years.She urged Kenyans, particularly farmers to adopt sustainable farming practices that will withstand climate.

“A time has come when we need to embrace the use of GMOs, we have no option.The seasonal rains are now unpredictable and no longer consistent as they used to be,”she said.

Maina said Kenyans need not to fear for their health as sufficient scientific research has proved that GMO foods are fit for human consumption.

 “Extensive research has been carried out on the foods and experts tell us that they are safe. GMOs can be compared to the medicine we take which has a healing effect yet we don’t know how it’s manufactured. The time is now when we need to take a bold step of faith," Maina said.

Mwea is among the areas that have been adversely affected by the drought. Earlier in the month area MP Mary Maingi said more than 80,000 residents were affected.

Maina said she will lobby for more help as Kirinyaga is not listed among counties affected by the ongoing drought.

She at the same time vowed to keenly follow up on the controversial South Ngariama land in bid to ensure that only the bona fide owners benefit 

The Woman Rep warned those plotting to frustrate the titling process cautioning them that their days are numbered.

“I want to tell them that Kirinyaga residents elected me to work and defend them. I’m not cowered by anybody as my integrity record is clear  with regards to the South Ngariama issue," she said.

"I seek to exhaust all legal avenues within my disposal inclusive of the justice and legal affairs committee of which I’m a vibrant member."

Those who benefitted with the food stuff lauded Maina for her commitment in ensuring they get food.

Nancy Gatu, a beneficiary said they have had very little to eat as the weather has remained unfavourable for a long time.