GAZETTE NOTICE NO. 16256

under the Biosafety Act, No.2 of 2009, to exercise general supervision and control over the transfer, handling and use of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) with a view to ensuring safety of human and animal health and provision of adequate protection of the environment. Pursuant to the provisions of the Biosafety Act, 2009 and the Biosafety (Environmental Release) Regulations, 2011, NBA hereby notifies the public that it has received an application for environmental release or open field cultivation, and placing on the market of genetically modified maize (Zea mays) commonly known as Bt maize (MON 89034). This application, was jointly submitted by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF). The Bt maize has been developed using modern biotechnology methods to protect itself against specific pests such as the maize stem borers and fall armyworms, which are devastating pests in maize fields. As a result, farmers can expect less damage to their maize crop, which may lead to increased harvests and better-quality grains. This could also lower production costs and reduce risks to health and the environment by using fewer insecticides used for pest management. In line with Kenya’s Biosafety Act of 2009, NBA is currently assessing this Bt maize to ensure that it is safe for human and animal consumption as well as being safe to our environment. The assessment process involves working with other Government Agencies and Biosafety Experts and focused on censuring the safety of the Bt maize, while comparing the safety parameters of currently cultivated maize varieties. Other evaluations being undertaken include socio-economic impact assessments related to the Bt maize varieties. It is further underscored that if the Authority approves the environmental release and open cultivation of Bt maize, further testing shall be conducted to evaluate its performance under different maize growing zones in Kenya in accordance with the Seeds and Plant Varieties Act, which mandates that all new crop types undergo testing in National Performance Trials before farmers can grow them. All approved GM crops are also required by Biosafety Act to be monitored for the duration of the approval period. In line with the requirements of the law, the Authority is seeking public input on the proposed environmental release and open cultivation of Bt maize in Kenya. Members of the public are invited to submit their comments in writing within 30 days of this announcement. The Authority has published on its website, www.biosafetykenya.goke; the summary of the Bt maize Application, Guidelines on public awareness and participation, and the Public participation form for submitting comments. More information on the application can be accessed physically from the NBA offices during normal working hours in the contact address below. Please send your written comments to: Chief Executive Officer, National Biosafety Authority, P.O. Box 28251–00100, Nairobi. Tel: 020 2678667 / 0713 854132 or By Email: btmaize@biosafetykenya.go.ke NEHEMIAH K. NETICH, MR/6485732 Ag. Chief Executive Officer.