Ugandan Farmers Show Growing Acceptance of GM Technology

A study conducted by researchers from Uganda Martyrs University and the International Crane Foundation, Uganda has found that many farmers in the country are aware of and open to using genetic modification (GM) technology for developing tree and agricultural crop germplasm. The findings suggest growing readiness among farmers to adopt GM applications, despite the country still lacking a complete legal and policy framework governing the technology and GMOs.

The researchers surveyed 158 randomly selected respondents from districts across northern, southern, eastern, and western Uganda. About 75.9% of respondents said they knew what GM technology and GMOs were, while 56.3% said they would accept the use of GM technology to develop tree and crop germplasm. Among the expected benefits, 47.4% believed GM technology could improve yields, while 35.8% expected GM crops to provide faster income.

However, some respondents remained hesitant, citing concerns about the high cost of GM technology, possible changes in taste, limited market acceptance, reduced genetic diversity, and competition with indigenous species. Overall, the researchers said the results indicate that Ugandan farmers are generally ready for GM technology. They recommended that the government complete its pending policy and legal framework to support GM research and application, particularly for improving crop yields and reducing maturity time to increase farm income.

For more information, read the study in Sustainability and Biodiversity Conservation.