Public participation is a legal requirement as enshrined in Articles 10 (2) (a) and 232 (1) (d) of the Constitution of Kenya. The Authority undertakes public participation to promote open, transparent, efficient and accountable decision making on activities involving environmental release of GMOs, aligning it to Section 54 of the Biosafety Act CAP 320 and Article 23 of the Cartagena Protocol.

The public participation process commences with a notification process to the public about GMO applications through a notice in the Kenya Gazette, two widely circulated newspapers and the NBA website. In notifying the public, NBA provides details of the applicant; a description, purpose, nature and use of the GMO; the decision-making authority; public participation timelines; contact details; and the procedure of public participation. In compliance with the provisions of Section 25 of the Biosafety Act on confidential information, a summary of the application is published in the NBA website.

Early engagement is encouraged before decisions are finalized. The public can submit written comments using prescribed formats within 30 days of the public notice.  NBA takes into consideration the public comments in decision making. The final decision is published on the NBA website and Biosafety Clearing House (BCH).

Public Awareness on Biosafety Matters

NBA is mandated under the Biosafety Act CAP 320, to promote awareness and education among the general public, in matters relating to biosafety. Public awareness and education foster a well-informed society that understands the significance of biosafety  across various applications of modern biotechnologies such as agriculture, healthcare, and the environment.