Biotechnology and Biosafety Policy under review —Ministry of Green Economy

Government has commenced the process of reviewing the Biotechnology and Biosafety Policy of 2003 in order to strengthen the application of Biotechnology and Biosafety in Zambia.

Ministry of Green Economy and Environment Permanent Secretary John Musimuko said the draft policy has since been developed and currently undergoing validation processes.

Musimuko said once it is finalized, the Policy will provide a legal framework in addressing the challenges that affect biotechnology and other related issues.

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He said it is important to note that in recent years, biotechnology is being used to find solutions in agriculture, medicine, environment and industrial applications.

Musimuko has cited some of neighbouring countries such as Malawi that are already utilizing biotechnology in agriculture and has commercialized the production of genetically modified cotton.

“It is important to note that in recent years, biotechnology is being used to find solutions in Agriculture, Medicine, Environment and Industrial application, some of our neighbouring countries are already utilising Biotechnology in Agriculture,” he said.

Musimuko has since urged Zambian researchers and scientists to take keen interest in biotechnology research to improve the lives of people and combat emerging diseases, improve productivity, and provide quality medicines to spur socio-economic development.

“I urge you researchers and Scientists in Zambia to take keen interest in Biotechnology research to improve the lives of our people and combat emerging diseases, improve productivity, and provide quality medicines in order to spur social economic development,” he said.

He said this during a one-day meeting on awareness and sensitization of stakeholders applying Biotechnology and Biosafety on Thursday in Lusaka.

Contributed by Augustine Sichula

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