Consumer awareness and attitudes toward GM foods in Kenya

Abstract

A survey of 604 consumers was conducted in Nairobi, Kenya, in November and December 2003, at three
points of sale (supermarkets, kiosks, and posho mills) to determine consumer awareness and attitudes
towards genetically modified (GM) foods. Above a third (38%) of the respondents were aware of GM
crops, mostly from newspapers, television and radio. Others had learned about GM crops at school.
Newspapers and television were more important to higher-income and more educated consumers.
Consumers acknowledged the technology’s potential positive impacts, with more than 80% agreeing
that it increases productivity. Sixty-eight percent said they would buy GM maize meal at the same price
as their favorite brands, although many had concerns; half of the respondents feared that GM
technology could lead to a loss of biodiversity and affect non -target insects; while more than one- third
(37%) had concerns about the effects of GM food on human health. We conclude that GM technology
has a role to play in food security in Kenya. However, consumers need more information about the
technology, which can be provided through established sources of information. Finally, consumer
attitudes should be studied regularly, and the survey population broadened to include rural consumers.