By Ivyn Kipruto and Daniel Omwoyo
The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) has recognized Kenyan journalists for their steadfast dedication to promoting accurate and responsible science reporting and, concurrently, stressed the critical need for heightened public sensitization on biotechnology and genetically modified crops (GMOs) to bolster Kenya’s food security.
Speaking at the 2025 Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) Media Awards in Nairobi, NBA Ag Chief Executive Officer Nehemiah Ngetich commended the media’s essential role in building public trust, influencing policy, and fostering safe and responsible innovation.
“When reporters bring accuracy, clarity, and context to complex topics like gene editing, GM crops, and biosafety regulation, they empower citizens and policymakers to engage with evidence, not rumor,” Ngetich stated.
To strengthen this collaboration, Ngetich outlined three key commitments from the Authority which he promises full access to technical experts for accurate scientific insights; strengthened partnerships for training journalists on biosafety regulations and risk communication; and improved communication on biosafety approvals and laboratory monitoring to enhance transparency and public awareness.
He called on journalists to maintain ethical reporting by cross-verifying claims, avoiding sensationalism, and ensuring a fair presentation of both scientific data and community perspectives.
Call for Action on Public Education
Ng’etich emphasized the urgent necessity for increased public education on biotechnology. This, he argued, is vital for dispelling misinformation that impedes the adoption of improved crop varieties.
“Facts are not optional; they are the safety rails to making sound policies, regulations, and innovations,” said Ng’etich, who highlighted biotechnology’s practical potential in addressing agricultural challenges such as drought, pests, and low yields.
He reaffirmed the NBA's dedication to working alongside journalists to enhance understanding of biosafety issues. “Empowering journalists with accurate and reliable information is essential for building public trust and ensuring debates around biotechnology are guided by science rather than speculation,” he noted. Ng’etich further lauded the media as crucial partners in helping Kenyans appreciate biotechnology’s contribution to national food security, environmental sustainability, and economic growth.
OFAB Awards Celebrate Excellence in Science Reporting
The annual OFAB Media Awards, which celebrate excellence in science and agricultural journalism across Africa, attracted numerous entries from print, radio, television, and online platforms. Judges praised participants for their commitment to factual storytelling on agricultural innovation.
Agutu Rosa was recognized as the overall winner for her outstanding coverage of biotechnology and its impact on sustainable agriculture. Other recognized journalists included Mark Meut (first runner-up, radio category), Jim Israel Mwanda (second runner-up, online category), and Cynthia Masibo (third place, print category).
Ngetich congratulated the winners and finalists, asserting that their work demonstrates that science journalism in Kenya can be both engaging and accurate. “Being shortlisted in these awards is a mark of distinction. To the winners, wear this recognition as a responsibility to keep raising the standards,” he urged.
He extended thanks to ISAAA AfriCenter, the OFAB-Kenya Programme Committee, and the Media Council of Kenya for their continuous support in advancing professional journalism and science communication.
Ng’etich underscored that sustained cooperation among regulatory agencies, researchers, and the media is indispensable if Kenya is to fully capitalize on biotechnology for advancing food security, public safety, and sustainable development.
“The role of the media in shaping public perception cannot be overstated. When the public is well-informed, they are more likely to make decisions based on evidence rather than fear,” Ng’etich concluded.
The 2025 OFAB Media Awards underscored the increasing significance of responsible science communication in effectively bridging the gap between research, policy, and society, ensuring innovation meaningfully contributes to Kenya’s development agenda.