The World Food Programme said that Zimbabwe has relaxed its stance on refusing genetically modified crops as food aid, and has agreed to the distribution of GM grain.


The move comes amidst a controversial debate about the rights and wrongs of offering impoverished countries genetically modified food aid. There is concern that introducing GM crops could harm the country’s export potential, as the EU will not take crops from countries that cannot guarantee their shippings are GM-free.


World Food Programme executive director James Morris welcomed Zimbabwe’s change of position, which came after an agreement that the maize would be milled prior to distribution, to ensure that it cannot be planted instead of being used directly for food.


“The fact that they [Zimbabwe] have now concluded that they are comfortable in accepting GM crops or commodities will be an important signal to other countries in the region,” Mr Morris told journalists.

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