Genetically Modified Organisms, also known as GMOs, remain one of the most hotly debated topics in agriculture both locally and internationally.
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In Uganda, this method has been used by scientists at National Agricultural Research Organization (Naro) to develop crops such as bananas that are resistant to banana bacterial wilt, and maize tolerant to drought conditions.
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[B]ecause actual farmers are too busy on their farms to be part of these debates, arm-chair farmers and NGOs claiming to represent farmers have jumped on this activism.…
As a farmer … all I look for in any given technology is whether it can solve current challenges I am facing or suiting the needs of the market I am targeting. If a GMO has a certain characteristic that can solve a challenge on my farm, I will gladly embrace it.
I am deeply concerned that the current discussion in Parliament on GMOs might result into a restrictive law, which might make it hard for farmers to have access to them. This is not fair to farmers.
All I would like to see as a farmer is a law that allows me access to different farming technologies. This is my kind request to Parliament of Uganda.
Editor’s note: Emma Naluyima is smallholder farmer and veterinarian in Uganda
Read full, original post: GMOs: Give farmers a chance to speak out
