President Jakaya Kikwete called for a change in perception in as far as adopting Genetic Modified Organisms (GMOs) technology is concerned. What is your view about it?
I agree with the president. It is a good idea to enable the farmers to access seeds that will withstand the current climatic changes; pest and disease pressure and, at the same time improve food security.
Will there be any effects of GMOs on Tanzania’s economy and small scale farmers?
The benefits of the ‘Bt cotton’ are a reduction in pesticide use, an increase in yields and profits, and health benefits for cotton farmers who often apply pesticides without protective clothing.
Small scale farmers suffer the most when there are weather hazards, pests and disease .This of course affects their yields.
For example in Kagera region, banana bacterial wilt has reduced banana yields in some villages by as much as 80 – 99%.
If banana (matoke) can be genetically modified to be resistant to bacterial wilt, fungal or viral infestation, farmers will be able to improve banana production in addition to increasing food security and household income.
Tanzania has of recent embarked on various plans that aim at modernizing farming methods like Kilimo Kwanza. How will the technology help?
Arable land in Tanzania including SAGCOT area has higher potential for production of food and trade crops that could be marketed both regionally and internationally.
If GM rice or sugarcane can withstand prolonged water stress in these arable areas is made available, it will allow the increase of production area and yields of these crops.
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