At Alupe in the border county of Busia, the government started distributing seeds for the growing of the genetically modified Bt cotton, which was okayed after years of research and much debate. Bt cotton is genetically engineered for pest resistance, especially against the African bollworm, a caterpillar pest. Dr Waturu estimates that Bt will reduce the cost of production by between 30 and 60 per cent. GO THE WHOLE HOGBt cotton is grown in the US, Australia, China, South Africa, Burkina Faso and Sudan. The news of the beginning of the growing of Bt cotton is, therefore, to oil the wheels of factories that used to power local economies.

Source: Daily Nation March 13, 2020 17:48 UTC