Zimbabwe has commencement the process to establish laws for novel biotechnology methods, such as genome editing and genetically modified crops (GMOs), in a move to ensure their safety against the environment and public health.
According to Professor Fanuel Tagwira, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology Development, Higher and Tertiary Education, the creation of laws is an essential first step in encouraging the responsible and safe use of GMO and genome editing technologies.
He said to attendees at a workshop in the capital, “This workshop is a crucial step in the responsible governance of these powerful technologies and your presence here underscores your commitment to ensuring their safe and ethical application,” he told participants at a workshop in the capital.
“Your collective expertise, perspectives and insights are the foundation upon which we will build a comprehensive regulatory framework that cultivates responsible and ethical practices in genome editing and GMO technology.”
A week-long workshop is being organized by the Scientific and Industrial Research and Development Centre (SIRDC), the National Biotechnology Authority (NBA), and the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) to help design biosafety in Zimbabwe in the future.
In an effort to maximize agricultural productivity, enhance human health, and further scientific research, the nation has embraced genome editing and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
In order to accomplish significant progress in the nation, the government wishes to give priority to innovation, technology, and digitization.
Zimbabwe and the SADC region have committed to advancing emerging technologies in a number of areas, such as robotics, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, quantum computing, big data, biotechnology, fifth generation wireless technology, and 3D printing, in order to prepare for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
“We will explore the scientific, ethical, legal and social dimensions of genome editing and GMO technology, considering the potential risks, benefits and the broader implications for society,” Prof Tagwira said.
“Together, we will navigate the complexities of this field of modern biotechnology and work towards developing regulations that strike the right balance between scientific progress and ensuring the safety of human and animal health, as well as our environment.”
Zimbabwe is participating in a regional genome editing pilot project along with seven other African countries.
