In a landmark decision, the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) has confirmed that gene-edited banana events developed by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Kenya are not classified as genetically modified organisms (GMOs) as they do not contain any foreign genetic material. This determination allows the improved gene-edited bananas to advance through conventional research pathways, marking a major step in enabling the use of modern breeding technologies.

The environmental and therapeutic application of genetically engineered microorganisms necessitates the development of robust, irreversible biocontainment systems. In this study, we present an eEGM (editing-driven essential gene multiplex inactivation) module that utilizes CRISPR-mediated cytidine base editing to induce permanent self-killing via a single transient induction. By targeting the start codons of essential genes,

Researchers from the University of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania and Moi University, Kenya found that misinformation, language barriers, and limited science communication skills continue to hinder public understanding of genetically modified (GM) foods. The researchers noted that despite ongoing public debate, expert scientific voices are often missing from discussions about GM crops.