Bill Gates, 69, Awarded GCFR—A Top Honor in Nigeria Amidst Activist / Farmer Pushback on GMO & GMM in Africa.

Bill Gates, 69, Awarded GCFR—A Top Honor in Nigeria Amidst Activist / Farmer Pushback on GMO & GMM in Africa.

(The Nigeria World)

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Bill Gates has been awarded Nigeria’s highest national honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (GCFR), by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This recognition highlights Gates’ contributions to healthcare, education, poverty alleviation, and technological advancement in Africa through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

His initiatives have had a significant impact on Nigeria’s public health sector, particularly in polio eradication, malaria prevention, vaccine distribution, and AI-driven medical advancements.

His foundation has also invested in educational programs, ensuring access to quality learning for underprivileged communities.

Despite these contributions, Gates has faced criticism from African activists and farmers regarding his foundation’s promotion of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and genetically modified mosquitoes (GMMs).

Many argue that these technologies threaten traditional agriculture, biodiversity, and food sovereignty, leaving local farmers dependent on Western agribusinesses rather than fostering self-sufficiency.

Why Is GMO Problematic for Africa?

African agriculture has historically thrived on organic farming, indigenous seed preservation, and natural sustainability.

The introduction of GMOs means farmers must repurchase patented seeds each season, limiting their independence.

Concerns have also been raised about the unknown health risks, impact on soil fertility, and reduced biodiversity that could leave African countries vulnerable to food crises should Western suppliers withdraw support.

Additionally, public health experts interviewed for this report emphasize that Africa cannot afford to rely heavily on the West for food security, especially given its weak healthcare infrastructure and limited private investment in medical solutions.

Organic farming plays a crucial role in preventing unnecessary illness and deaths by ensuring access to safe, naturally grown food that aligns with Africa’s agricultural strengths.

Gates’ GMO Push in Nigeria

The central point of contention among critics and activists is Gates’ advocacy for GMO adoption in Nigeria.

According to reports, he has been actively promoting genetically modified crops as part of his broader agricultural development strategy for Africa.

His foundation has funded research aimed at increasing crop yields, improving food security, and reducing dependence on traditional farming methods.

Recently, Nigeria launched the TELA Maize Variety, a genetically modified maize seed designed to increase agricultural productivity.

This initiative, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, was developed in collaboration with Ahmadu Bello University and the African Agriculture Technology Foundation.

Balancing Perspectives on GMOs in Africa

Gates and his foundation argue that GMOs can help Nigeria and Africa by increasing food production, making crops more resistant to droughts and pests, and reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.

However, many African farmers and activists believe that organic farming and agroecology offer more sustainable solutions.

They emphasize the need for independent food systems, traditional farming methods, and biodiversity conservation to ensure Africa’s long-term agricultural stability.

As Gates continues investing billions into African development, the debate between advocates and critics remains divided.

While some praise his contributions, others urge for more inclusive strategies that protect Africa’s food sovereignty, health, and long-term independence—especially in a climate zone and continent where most people rely on organic products for self-sufficiency.

Yetunde B reports for Yeyetunde’s Blog.

Images / Asiwaju Bola Tinubu / The Statehouse, Abuja / Facebook.