Key players in Kenya’s food and animal feed sector have raised concerns over what they describe as growing misinformation and disinformation campaigns targeting new agricultural innovations, warning that such narratives are undermining efforts to address food insecurity amid worsening climate change.

The concerns were voiced during a trade and stakeholder meeting on biotechnology food and feed commodities held at Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi. Participants called for a coordinated national approach that prioritizes public education and awareness to strengthen resilience against misinformation in agriculture and regional trade.

The meeting brought together representatives from the African Seed Trade Association (AFSTA), the Seed Trade Association of Kenya (STAK), the Eastern Africa Grain Council (EAGC), the Association of Kenya Feed Manufacturers (AKEFEMA), and Bayer East Africa. The stakeholders warned that sustained opposition to climate-smart agricultural technologies, including modern biotechnology, continues to deny Kenya critical opportunities to boost food production and stabilize supply chains.

Livestock feed manufacturers, in particular, highlighted persistent challenges in accessing adequate and affordable feed ingredients. Dr. Gakuo Mwangi, representing AKEFEMA, said most feed materials are derived from maize – which is Kenya’s staple food crop thus largely prioritized for human consumption – leaving the feed industry vulnerable to shortages and price volatility.

“As feed millers, we are struggling to source consistent and affordable raw materials locally,” Dr. Gakuo said. “We are asking for the expeditious resolution of legal challenges to allow us to access readily available and affordable biotech feed materials from the international market.”

The stakeholders also expressed concern over ongoing court cases challenging the importation of genetically modified (GM) foods and feeds, which they say have disrupted trade and resulted in significant financial losses. According to industry representatives, the legal uncertainty has constrained access to affordable commodities, further straining the food and feed value chain.

They warned that unless misinformation is addressed and policy clarity restored, Kenya risks falling behind in adopting innovations that could help cushion farmers and consumers against the impacts of climate change, including prolonged droughts and declining agricultural productivity.