Application & Approval of GMOs
NBA is the official channel for receiving, reviewing, and authorizing applications related to GMOs. These include:
Research permits for institutions intending to study GMOs.
Import and transit approvals for GM materials entering Kenya.
Contained use authorizations for laboratory or greenhouse GMO activities.
Environmental release approvals, such as field trials or commercial release.
Commercialization and placement on the market of GMO products (e.g., Bt cotton, GM maize).
Evaluate the risks and benefits, and ensure public interest and biosafety compliance before issuing permits.
The NBA is a government agency established under the Biosafety Act No. 2 of 2009 to regulate the development, handling, transfer, use, and release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Kenya. Its goal is to ensure the safe use of biotechnology for human health and environmental protection.
NBA’s core responsibilities include:
Reviewing and approving applications related to GMOs.
Conducting biosafety risk assessments.
Inspecting GMO activities.
Promoting public awareness.
Coordinating with other regulatory bodies.
Ensuring compliance with international biosafety standards.
Anyone intending to:
Import or export GMOs
Conduct GMO research
Release GMOs into the environment
Commercialize GMO products
must apply and obtain approval from NBA.
You can submit your application through the NBA website or the Biosafety Clearing-House (BCH) portal. Each type of activity (e.g., research, import, release) has specific forms and guidelines.
Yes. NBA conducts public participation forums and issues public notices for major applications. The public is encouraged to submit their views during the consultation period
