The Kenyan authorities could be forced to lift their ban on genetically modified maize imports in light of the ongoing drought in their grain-producing belt – and a looming shortage for domestic consumption.
“We continue to receive reports of crop failures putting financial pressure on farmers, and in the coming months, households will face strain,” says agricultural economist Wandile Sihlobo.
“Kenya can source maize from South Africa. For the 2025-26 marketing year, which ends in April 2026, in South Africa we have roughly one million tonnes for export. The next marketing year, 2026-27, also promises ample supplies in South Africa.”
Some 80% of South Africa’s maize is genetically modified (GM), which has helped improve yields immensely since the early 2000s.
“There is an ongoing domestic discussion in Kenya about this policy position,” Sihlobo points out.
“But given possible maize supply constraints in the coming months and higher consumer prices, it would be desirable for the Kenyan authorities to consider lifting the ban on genetically modified maize imports for consumption (not cultivation) for now, until they sort out the domestic policy discussion.”
It’s a path that Zimbabwe has chosen to ease domestic food price inflation pressure.
“Zimbabwe is the largest importer of South African maize so far in the 2025-26 marketing year, accounting for a third of the 1.5 million tonnes we have exported since May 2025. But cultivation is not yet cleared there, as domestic researchers and interest groups continue to reflect on what's desirable for the country,” says Sihlobo.
