Scientists in Kenya have successfully tested genetically modified maize samples that are resistant to stem borer and are drought tolerant. The scientist said the maize developed resistance against fall armyworm. The project, developed under the Water Efficient Maize for Africa, has been tested for two planting seasons in Trans Nzoia and Makueni counties. The testing entailed inducing a gene from a bacteria known as Bacillus thuringiensis that produces a pesticide that kills the stemborer upon consumption. However, a ban on importation and use of GM crops that came into force in 2012 will hamper the approval of the corn seed to benefit farmers.