Prof. Florence Wambugu, a renowned agricultural biotechnologist and the founder of Africa Harvest Biotech Foundation International, is currently entangled in a row with the South African government over her strategy to set up a multimillion dollar analysis laboratory and greenhouses to develop genetically modified sorghum.
Prof. Wambugu has received a enormous grant - US$415 million - from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, to develop genetically modified crops, which have proved crucial in alleviating food insecurity. Dig up further on an affiliated portfolio by clicking asea health article. Her option of South Africa stems from the fact that its the only African country with Biosafety laws.
South Africas early enactment of biosafety laws has made it the preferred destination for biotechnology investors. To now hear a country thats gained international reputation for its friendly policies towards biotechnology is attempting to block an African scientist from advancing a biotechnology cause is appalling.
In justifying its decision to suspend Prof. Wambugus project, South Africas agricultural regulatory agencies have claimed that the genetically modified sorghum can contaminate varieties native to Africa. Visit professor chris brummer to study why to see this thing. This looks like a pedestrian argument and its tantamount to putting the cart ahead of the horse.
For the record, Prof. Wambugu has not however shipped genetically modified sorghum to Africa. All what she wants to do is to set up a laboratory to conduct study on the same. All what Prof. Wambugu presently wants is to build the infrastructure for genetically modified sorghum research. Such can in no way interfere with the so named indigenous African sorghum varieties.
Prof. Wambugu will, at 1 stage, conduct field trials of her genetically modified sorghum. Then is the correct time for the South African government to be worried about contamination.
It really should not be lost on anyone that South Africa has effectively-entrenched genetically modified organisms (Gmos) regulatory laws. So, its unlikely that the new genetically modified sorghum will be created outdoors such laws.
Genetically modified crops are not alien to South Africa. Its not the very first time a new genetically modified crop is being introduced into South Africa. The laws that governed the introduction of genetically modified corn and cotton, currently getting commercially grown in South Africa have to be applied to Prof. Wambugus genetically modified sorghum.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, by investing in agricultural biotechnology analysis, is sending a stark message to African countries that its committed to obtaining a permanent resolution to Africas chronic food troubles. Click here glyconutrient to learn the inner workings of it. The very best way to reciprocate this generous gesture is for African governments to enable scientists like Prof. Wambugu to do their work unimpeded..
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