Billionaire and philanthropist Bill Gates visited Kenya last November and amidst his hectic schedule found time to gather support for the controversial use of genetically modified plants.
What happened: Genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, are now widespread, the Microsoft co-founder suggested, online news outlet Tuko reported.
“Every piece of bread I’ve ever eaten is made from genetically modified wheat, every piece of corn I’ve eaten is GMO corn. These are proven products,” he said, speaking at the University of Nairobi on November 17, 2022.
A GM crop contains DNA that has been genetically engineered to introduce a beneficial trait or confer immunity from predators/parasites to increase productivity. Today, these are predominantly found in the food supply chain.
Kenya recently lifted the ban on the cultivation and import of genetically modified crops and animal feed.
Why it matters: Gates has long been a proponent of GMOs, arguing in a 2016 interview with the Wall Street Journal that genetic modification is done in a way that involves a very thorough safety procedure. Fortification with vitamins, which can be achieved through genetic modification, could help counteract malnutrition in Africa, he said.
Critics, including consumers, farmers, NGOs and regulators, argue that widespread use of GMO crops gives rise to herbicide-resistant weeds and pesticide-resistant pests. This, in turn, will require the development of even more toxic chemicals to control weeds and pests.
They also point to threats to small farmers, as GMO crops are mostly patented and under the control of large, deep-pocketed corporations.
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Originally published November 19, 2022.
Photo: Courtesy of Red Maxwell on flickr
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