Malawi to Host Validation Workshop of Genome Editing Training Modules
The workshop, scheduled to take place from August 14 to 18, 2023, in Lilongwe, aims to enhance crop productivity and resilience through the use of genome editing tools.
LILONGWE, Malawi-The Ministry of Natural Resources and Climate Change of Malawi, in collaboration with the African Union Development Agency, New Partnership for Africa Development (AUDA/NEPAD), has announced a validation workshop of genome editing training modules for agricultural transformation, writes Winston Mwale.
The workshop, scheduled to take place from August 14 to 18, 2023, in Lilongwe, aims to enhance crop productivity and resilience through the use of genome editing tools.
Genome editing is a technique that allows precise modification of the genetic material of living organisms.
The training modules, developed by African scientists, regulators, and R&D experts, are tailored to the needs and contexts of the continent.
They provide a standardised and systematic approach to training different stakeholder groups on the benefits and risks of genome editing, as well as the regulatory and ethical aspects of its application.
The Expert Group Meeting will bring together national lead agencies, scientists, policymakers, research and development experts, and private sector representatives from eight African countries: Burkina Faso, Ghana, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Mozambique, Kenya, Malawi, and Zimbabwe.
The meeting will provide an opportunity for feedback and validation of the training modules before their dissemination and implementation across the continent.
This workshop is part of an Africa-wide project led by AUDA/NEPAD's Centre of Excellence in Science, Technology, and Innovation (CoE-STI), aligned with Agenda 2063 and National Development Plans.
Its objective is to harness the potential of genome editing to enhance agricultural productivity and resilience in Africa.
The validation workshop in Lilongwe marks an important step towards the adoption and implementation of genome editing techniques in African agriculture.
By bringing together experts and stakeholders from multiple countries, this initiative aims to ensure that the benefits of genome editing are realised while addressing any concerns related to ethics and regulations.
Background
Genome editing is a rapidly developing technology with the potential to revolutionise agriculture.
By allowing scientists to make precise changes to the genetic makeup of plants and animals, genome editing could help improve crop yields, reduce food waste, and develop new drought- and pest-resistant varieties.
However, there are also concerns about the potential risks of genome editing, such as the possibility that it could create new unintended genetic variants or that it could be used to create "designer" foods that are not safe for human consumption.
The validation workshop in Lilongwe will be an important opportunity to discuss these concerns and develop a framework for the safe and responsible use of genome editing in African agriculture.