Dr. Daba Highlights Strategies at Genome Editing Validation Event
He stressed the need for effective communication, especially in the context of biotechnology, to bridge the gap between scientists, policymakers, and the public.
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia -In a groundbreaking stakeholder validation event for Genome Editing (GE) Training Materials and Curriculum, Dr. Tadessa Daba, the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) representative, took the stage to emphasize the critical role of communication and advocacy in the field of biotechnology, writes Winston Mwale.
The event, held from November 15th to 17th in Addis Ababa, brought together key stakeholders, experts, and policymakers to validate and enhance training materials for the rapidly evolving field of genome editing.
Dr. Daba, renowned for his expertise in communication and advocacy, shared insights drawn from OFAB's extensive experience in effectively communicating complex biotechnological concepts.
During his presentation, he underscored the importance of strategic knowledge-sharing to influence policies and practices surrounding biotechnology.
"Advocacy is a process, not a one-way activity," Dr. Daba emphasized. "Successful advocacy does not happen spontaneously. It is a deliberate, persuasive communication using various tools tailored to the preferences of the target audience."
OFAB, established in 2006 by the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) in Nairobi, Kenya, has been instrumental in creating platforms to enhance understanding, inform policy decision-making processes, and provide factual scientific information on agricultural biotechnology across African nations.
Dr. Daba delved into the objectives of OFAB's Ethiopian chapter, launched in 2014, which aims to improve the policy environment, raise awareness, and enhance decision-making processes regarding agricultural biotechnology in Ethiopia.
He highlighted the network established among stakeholders and platforms dedicated to advancing agricultural biotechnology in the country.
The OFAB representative provided insights into the institutional composition of OFAB-Ethiopia, detailing collaborations with entities such as the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR), Higher Learning Institutions, Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute, Environmental Protection Authority, Bio and Emerging Technology Institute, and CGIAR Centers.
Under the theme "Advocacy vs. Communication," Dr. Daba elucidated the distinction between the two, emphasizing that while communication is the act of exchanging information, advocacy involves deliberate efforts to persuade and influence.
He stressed the need for effective communication, especially in the context of biotechnology, to bridge the gap between scientists, policymakers, and the public.
The achievements of OFAB-Ethiopia from 2019 to 2024 were presented, showcasing success in improving the policy environment, fostering public awareness and engagement, advancing science communication, and establishing collaborations and networks.
As the stakeholders validated Genome Editing Training Materials and Curriculum, Dr. Tadessa Daba's insights provided a valuable perspective on the crucial role communication and advocacy play in shaping the landscape of biotechnology in Ethiopia.
The event, with its focus on cutting-edge genome editing, is poised to contribute significantly to the advancement of biotechnological practices in the region, guided by the principles of effective communication and strategic advocacy.