Did you know that countries like Japan, New Zealand, and Germany oppose Genetically Modified Foods, also identified as Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO)? In general the European Union, a great buyer of Africa’s organic food, opposes Genetically Modified Foods. Africa’s economic giant, Nigeria, was let down on this issue by its leaders in spite of a strong civil society opposition. Unfortunately after lobbying politicians, biotechnology companies such as Monsanto successfully convinced the previous Nigerian administration and lawmakers to enact a law which opened the door for them to introduce Genetically Modified Crops into the country’s agricultural system.
In “Introduction of Genetically Modified Food into Nigeria”, Nigerian Advanced Legal Studies states, “Research has identified that toxins emanating from GMOs have been found in maternal and fetal blood… Gluten disorder has been connected to GMO and 18 million Americans suffer from this disorder… GMO corn has also been linked to rat tumours. Glyphosate, a toxin found in GMO is linked to many diseases and ailments; birth defects, autism, parkinson, alzeimer, breast cancer, and more. Compounds found in GMO can trigger early puberty, cause thyroid problems and infertility. The risk assessment done on genetically modified food is scientifically insufficient to guaranty food safety.”
Africa Faith & Justice Network (AFJN), in collaboration with local and international organizations, are gathering from May 24-27 in the Nigerian Capital of Abuja with representatives of civil society groups, academia, farmers’ associations, faith congregations, and the scientific community to oppose the Nigerian Biosafety Act, discuss the law’s implications for Africa, and call for accountable governments. Click here to read the conference’s opening remarks by AFJN’s Executive Director, Rev. Aniedi Okure, OP.
