• Biotechnology experts say public perception on agricultural biotechnology remains clouded by misinformation.
• This is despite 27 years since the introduction of genetically modified organisms.
Image: HANDOUT
The African Agricultural Technology Foundation and Kenya Editors Guild have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance journalists' capacity to report accurately on agricultural biotechnology.
This initiative aims to address and correct misinformation surrounding the technology.
During the signing ceremony, Dr Canisius Kanangire, AATF executive director, emphasised the critical role of accurate information and education in agricultural biotechnology to boost adoption and uptake by farmers.
He said the partnership would foster collaboration to advance agricultural development through scientific advancements and strengthen the dialogue between editors, their audiences and scientists.
“Despite the 27 years since the introduction of genetically modified organisms, public perception on agricultural biotechnology remains clouded by misinformation,” Kanangire said.
He acknowledged the vital role of journalism in educating the public, promoting ethical standards and engaging various stakeholders on the benefits of agricultural biotechnology for a prosperous and food-secure Africa, as outlined in the AATF Strategy 2023-27.
AATF is a not-for-profit addressing Africa’s food security prospects through agricultural technology.
Leveraging the power of science and media could develop impactful solutions tailored to the region's unique needs, Kanangire said,
“Our collaboration with the Kenya Editors Guild will help disseminate accurate information and promote the benefits of agricultural biotechnology,” he said.
According to Kanangire, smallholder farmers, who produce 70 per cent of the food supply, are crucial to improving agricultural productivity and reducing poverty on the continent.
KEG president Zubeidah Kananu said that the partnership agreement would promote the dissemination of accurate, relevant and impactful information.
“This collaboration is not only timely but also essential in addressing the challenges faced by our agricultural sector, enhancing food security and driving sustainable development across our continent,” she said.
Kananu underscored the guild's commitment to equipping reporters and editors with the knowledge and tools necessary to effectively communicate advancements in agricultural technology to the public.
She said that newsrooms across the country have significantly invested in covering stories on climate change and smart agriculture.
“This collaboration with AATF comes at a crucial time and promises to provide much-needed support. By working together, we can ensure that our journalists and editors have the resources and tools necessary to effectively communicate advancements in agricultural technology to the public."
Daniel Magondu, chairman of the Society for Biotech Farmers of Kenya and champion of the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology in Africa, echoed the sentiment.
“Why should farmers share their sweat with insects? Where else would you want us to go if not adopting agricultural innovations that have been proven to tackle the agricultural challenges we are facing now?” he said.
Magondu said that such efforts would help smallholder farmers access irrigation, technologies, knowledge and inputs to boost farming productivity.