This study focuses on genetic modification of cowpea, a food crop grown predominantly by poor men and women in Nigeria and an important source of protein for the poor. The official justification for genetic modification is that it promotes resistance to the Maruca insect, which is said to be capable of destroying up to 80% of a farmer’s crop. The genetic engineering of food sources represents an extension of resources for extractive activities from the traditional extractive sectors (oil, gas and solid minerals) to the commodification of life, all in the relentless pursuit of profit. In this article, I take up the question of what has made it possible for genetically modified (GM) crops to be adopted in Nigeria.
Read the full article below or download here.