Health experts push for broader use of biotechnology in Kenya

Health professionals during a meeting to foster awareness and gather insights on the role of biotechnology in healthcare systems/Courtesy. 

Kenyan experts in health, biotechnology, and communication are urging for broader adoption of biotechnology to improve healthcare, food security, and public health outcomes.

The scientists noted the importance of involving medics in the biotechnology dialogue and dispelled myths linking GMOs to cancer.

They pointed out the potential of technologies like gene therapy, precision medicine, and GM foods to address chronic diseases, enhance nutrition, and boost agricultural productivity.

The experts stressed that delaying the use of biotech solutions risks missing out on vital health and economic benefits.

They called for a more inclusive, transparent, and accelerated integration of biotechnology across healthcare and food systems.

Prof. Richard Oduor, a Professor of Molecular and Cell Biology at Kenyatta University and Registrar of Research, Innovation and Outreach, noted that medical biotechnologists have largely remained confined to laboratories, with limited engagement with the broader scientific community and the public.

“Medics are essential in discussions around biotechnology, whether it’s GM insulin, gene-expressed drugs in GMO plants, medicinal plants, or even COVID-19 vaccines,” said Oduor.

He spoke during a forum with health professionals, involving nurses, pharmacologists, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals, which sought to foster awareness and gather insights on the role of biotechnology in healthcare systems.

Oduor pointed out the urgent need to explore and invest in regenerative medicine, individualized care, and precision medicine.

“Biotechnology has massive untapped potential in this country. The longer we delay, the more we lose out on its benefits,” he warned.

Dr. Ruth Mbugua, Dean of the School of Health Sciences at Mama Ngina University College and a specialist in cancer prevention, sought to allay public fears about genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

“GMOs do not cause cancer. The major drivers of cancer are lifestyle choices and dietary habits, not biotechnology,” said Mugo.

“Processed foods, sedentary lifestyles, and poor screening habits contribute more to cancer rates than GMO foods.”

She noted that cancer remains the third leading cause of illness and death in Kenya, and urged the public to focus on prevention and early diagnosis.

Dr. Joseph Muchiri, a Health Communication Specialist at Mount Kenya University, stressed the importance of translating biotechnology innovations from the lab to everyday use.

“Health communication plays a vital role in designing interventions that help communities understand and adopt new technologies,” Muchiri explained.

“We must ensure these innovations reach the people, from politicians to the grassroots level.”

Dr. James Ndukui, a Clinical Pharmacologist at UMMA University, noted the relevance of biotechnology in addressing Kenya’s rising population and food security concerns under Vision 2030.

“Biotechnology is here to stay. It’s vital for increasing food production, ensuring safety and sustainability, and managing emerging diseases,” said Ndukui.“Dismissing GMOs as unsafe is a fallacy, countries that have embraced them are ahead in pharmaceutical production and human healthcare.”

He also pointed out the progress in pharmacogenetics, where scientists study individual genetic makeup to treat chronic conditions like dementia, Alzheimer’s, and non-healing wounds through stem cell technology.

“We must rethink and fully embrace biotechnology, not just in agriculture, but also in hospitals for treatment and disease management,” he urged.

Dr. Joel Ochieng, Lead in Agricultural Biotechnology at the University of Nairobi and Secretary General of KUBICO, reminded stakeholders that biotechnology goes beyond agriculture.

“Biotechnology is already improving health and nutrition through safer, genetically engineered foods,” said Ochieng.