Genetically modified crops may be a solution to hunger - why there is scepticism in Africa
In 2022, the African region accounted for the highest level of hunger as described by Global Hunger Index.
- In 2022, the African region accounted for the highest level of hunger as described by Global Hunger Index.
- According to the World Health Organization, over 340 million Africans were undernourished and severely food insecure between 2014 and 2020.
- Evidence from the past two decades suggests that genetically modified (GM) crops could resolve low agricultural productivity, nutrition and food insecurity on the continent.
- GM products undergoing research and development include vitamin A-fortified cassava and potatoes, bacterial wilt-resistant banana and water-efficient maize, among others.
The promise of GM crops
- The adoption of GM technology among cotton producing households in India reduced food insecurity by 15%-20% between 2004 and 2008.
- Research into the value gained from planting GM crops has shown that 65% of the gain came from higher yield and production and 35% from lower costs.
- In 2019, Brazil, Argentina, India, Paraguay and China were among the 10 countries that planted the most GM crops in the world.
- GM crops showed environmental benefits by reducing greenhouse gases and pesticide use in developed countries.
Obstacles to GM crops in Africa
- In spite of these benefits, GM crops have not been widely adopted in Africa.
- In Uganda, a biosafety regulatory logjam, lack of awareness and politics undermine the application of GM technology.
- Potential risks of GM crops have led to the review and amendment of GM laws.
- This was followed by GM cowpea to control pod borer insects, which account for a 70%-80% loss of cowpea yield annually.
What must be done
Resilient food systems require a wide range of existing and new agricultural technologies, including GM organisms. There are several ways to encourage uptake:
Policy, research and science communication must align. The goal is to ensure GM foods are safe to eat, and help end hunger and malnutrition.