The High Court in Kisumu has issued an interim order prohibiting the National Biosafety Authority from issuing any approvals for the transfer, handling, and use of genetically modified organism (GMO) maize varieties.
Justice Joe Omido issued the order on Thursday, March 14, following a petition filed against the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries, and two others.
The court specifically prohibited KEPHIS, the first respondent in the case, from approving the transfer or use of genetically modified maize in the country. "An interim conservatory order is hereby issued prohibiting the 1st respondent (KEPHIS) from issuing any approvals for the transfer, handling, and use of genetically modified maize varieties," part of the ruling read.
Image of GMO maize corn Photo Business Insider According to Omido, the petitioners filed the case challenging the government's decision on allowing the use of GMO maize.
