A group representing small-scale farmers in Kenya has lost its court battle to stop genetically modified (GM) food being imported or grown in the country.
The judge ruled that there was a lack of evidence to show that GM technology harmed humans or the environment, and said that Kenya had “put in place a robust framework with inbuilt structures” to keep people safe.
The case had been filed by Kenyan lawyer Paul Mwangi and a lobby group, the Kenya Peasants League.
Last year, Kenya lifted a 10-year ban on maize, amid resistance from farmers and campaign groups.
It meant farmers could now openly cultivate GM crops, including the staple maize, as well as import GM-produced food and animal feeds.
The move was however suspended following the court case on grounds that the ban was un-procedural and unlawful. The petitioners also argued that GM products posed a health risk to Kenyans, especially the poor.