Members of Kenya's parliament recently voted down an attempt to ban production, consumption and sale of all genetically modified (GM) foods in the country. The failed motion was based on the grounds that most developed countries have banned GM food because they are unsafe for human consumption, and that the Government has failed to implement policy guidelines to guard against the introduction of such foods. Those opposed to the motion said a ban amounted to standing in the way of technology, and that the motion was undemocratic, anti-science, retrogressive, ignorant and frightening.

Citing that GM food is produced, sold and consumed in South Africa, the United States, China, and many European countries, those opposed to the motion said that it would be wrong to pass on employing a technology that could help millions of starving Kenyans.

Peter Kaindi, Agriculture assistant minister in charge of Research and Extension asked the House Business Committee give priority to development of the Biotechnology and Biosafety Bill, which would enable the Government to promote food and animal production through scientific research.

Kaindi also told the members of parliament that the Kenya Agricultural Research Institute and the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Services had already "subjected to rigorous tests" any safety claims related to GM foods. He also noted that Kenya had signed conventions and treaties with groups like the World Health Organization stating that Kenya has the capacity to make sure GM foods are fit for consumption.