August 4, 2009

A new study reveals that Tanzanian farmers are more interested on the productivity potential of genetically modified crops than they are worried about the risks associated with their use, a researcher said Monday (August 3).

The study was conducted by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture and the Africa College-University of Leeds in Tanzania.

"It is important for the scientific community to raise the awareness level of farmers by providing accurate and objective information so they can make informed and autonomous decisions on the potential of GM crops in their agricultural practice," IITA researcher Dr Caroline Herron said by e-mail.

"The tendency of farmers to focus on short-term gains in productivity should not prevent the potential of the medium and long-term risks being fully explained to them to allow them to make a clear judgment."

The study recommends that any trial for GM crops should be conducted in close consultation with government bodies, backed by a biosafety framework that aims at preventing any potential harm resulting from the use of GM crops, said Catherine Njuguna, a communications officer for the IITA.

Herron said the key to the success of any new technology aimed at increasing production is ensuring farmers can make informed decisions.

The research was carried out in consultation with the Mikocheni Agricultural Research Institute and the Tanzanian Commission for Science and Technology.

Tanzania's biosafety framework has recently been approved by the country's cabinet.