Gates Foundation addresses releasing modified mosquitoes in Nairobi
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has dismissed claims circulating on social media alleging that it is involved in releasing mosquitoes in Kenya
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has dismissed claims circulating on social media alleging that it is involved in releasing mosquitoes in Kenya.
In a statement on Monday, February 9, the organization denied the claims, stating that it does not run any such operations either in Nairobi or elsewhere.
“The Gates Foundation is aware of social media posts claiming that we release mosquitoes in Kenya. This claim is false.
“The Gates Foundation does not release mosquitoes, operate laboratories that do so, or run vector-control activities in Nairobi or anywhere else,” the statement read.
Gates Foundation also clarified that malaria control initiatives in Kenya are managed locally, with the foundation only playing a supportive role.
“In Kenya, malaria prevention and control efforts are led by Kenyan authorities and institutions, in accordance with national laws and regulatory oversight.
CS Mbadi declares presidential bid
Government gazettes NGAPU – new police unit to support chiefs
Tragedy as four brothers drown while swimming in an open quarry in Kisumu
“Resign if not comfortable with ODM Party Leader Oburu Oginga” – Oketch Salah to Sifuna
“The foundation supports Kenyan-led priorities transparently and responsibly, working alongside governments, researchers, and public health partners,” the statement added.
Notably, gene drive technology is a new genetic tool designed to help fight malaria by targeting the mosquitoes that spread the disease.
Normally, a gene has a 50% chance of being passed on to the next generation, but a gene drive can ensure almost all offspring inherit a specific trait.
Scientists are using this technology to either reduce mosquito populations by making females infertile or to make mosquitoes unable to carry the malaria parasite.
Over time, this could significantly lower malaria transmission.
Clinical officer arrested for allegedly raping pregnant woman on maternity check up in Bomet
CS Mbadi wants Sifuna expelled for ‘selling the agenda of someone else’
KRA reactivates ‘Nil Returns’ on iTax after system validation
Sifuna-led ODM leaders reject UDA-ODM coalition talk
Follow us
