Experts carrying out research on GMOs
Thursday, 31 March 2011 21:43
Agriculture Reporter
Zimbabwe is yet to adopt genetic modification technologies on a commercial basis pending the outcome of consultations with stakeholders.
Experts are carrying out research and trials on GMOs.
Presenting a paper at the Agriculture Market Linkage working group seminar in Harare on Wednesday, National Biotechnology Authority of Zimbabwe Registrar Mr Abisai Mafa said the country recognised biotechnologies as critical for development.
“We identify agriculture, industry, environment, energy and medical research as major priorities for biotechnology but there is need to ensure safety in biotech practice.
“We have a policy and regulatory framework for GMOs because of the double-edged nature of new technologies especially the benefits and costs,” he said.
It is estimated that by 2050, Africa will have a population of two billion people and could face serious food shortages.
GMOs have been touted as a possible solution.
Many African governments are, however, skeptical about GM crops as a result of the spill over concerns in Europe about food safety, environmental sustainability and general public mistrust.
The general public is also concerned about potential health effects such as enlarged internal organs and possible loss of nutrition in modified food, although this has not been scientifically proven.
Some participants at Wednesday’s workshop said large-scale farmers were generally willing to adopt GM crops because of the high yields and low costs of production.
Others said small-scale farmers were keen to produce, in particular, GM cotton.
Mr Mafa said it was important that GMOs are harnessed without negative.
“GMOs should be labeled so that people buy out of choice,” Mr Mafa said.
He said the National Biotechnology Authority Act advises Government on all aspects concerning the import, export, research, development, application and use of biotechnology.
The NBA is charged with the responsibility of regulating all potentially harmful technologies and undertakings involving plants, animals, micro-organisms and humans.
Last year 148 million hectares of GM crops were grown worldwide.