A genetically modified (GM) variety of maize is set to be commercially grown in Ethiopia for the first time this year. They also say GM crops can enter the food chain inadvertently if they are naturally cross-pollinated with non-GM varieties. Ethiopian agricultural authorities say the first shipment of TELA maize seeds will be used this year for on-farm demonstrations across six maize-growing zones. South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya have already approved the commercial release of four TELA maize varieties. However, in October 2024, South Africa’s Supreme Court of Appeal overturned the commercial approval of a GM maize, MON87460, developed by Bayer.

Source: Ethiopian News February 21, 2026 22:12 UTC