Genetically Modified Technology and the Attainment of SDG2 in Africa: a Comparative Study of South Africa and Kenya

Abstract

Hunger is a global problem that is becoming more significant as a result of factors such as climate change, conflict and instability, poverty and inequality, population expansion and insufficient infrastructure in many parts of the world. More and more stable food supply is needed to feed the world population and accomplish the SDG2 objective of eliminating hunger by 2030. As a result, new agricultural technologies such as genetically modified technology are required to end global hunger. Agriculture’s use of genetically modified (GM) crops has emerged as a potential option for solving food insecurity concerns and attaining SDG2-Zero Hunger in Africa. This research project examines South Africa and Kenya- two nations that are at various phases of embracing and applying genetically modifies technology in their agricultural systems. This study looks at the impact of genetically modified crops on the accomplishment of SDG2 in Africa. The study will do so by examining the progress made by African states in developing and adopting GM Technologies in the achievement of SDG2, to critique the policies and regulations governing the use of genetically modification technology in Kenya and South Africa and to analyze the challenges South Africa and Kenya face in adopting GM Technology for the achievement of SDG2. The study will adopt composite approach that incorporates secondary data gathered from literature studies and primary data obtained from interviews with relevant stakeholders. The study’s findings reflect contrasting outcomes of GM Technology in the two countries, with South Africa adopting and reaping big from the technology while Kenya approaches the technology reluctantly and cautiously, stressing biosafety laws and public participation. This study contributes to existing knowledge regarding genetically modified technology and its relevance in achieving SDG2 in Africa.