The inaugural Biotechnology Expo in Zimbabwe emphasized the urgent need for a robust legal and regulatory framework to foster the nation”s biotechnology sector. This call to action was made by Professor Idah Sithole Niang, dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of Zimbabwe, during her keynote speech at the event.
Professor Sithole Niang stated that implementing comprehensive legal guidelines under the National Biotechnology Policy, established in 2005, is crucial for addressing ambiguities in regulations, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring accountability within the sector. She advocated for the creation or amendment of laws to provide clarity for investors and stakeholders, define responsibilities, and facilitate the successful execution of biotechnology initiatives.
“The government must establish a suitable legal and regulatory framework to support the implementation of the country”s National Biotechnology Policy of 2005,” Professor Sithole Niang commented. She further highlighted that the government has a significant role in advancing biotechnology following the introduction of the National Science and Technology Policy in 2002 and its subsequent revisions.
The 2005 National Biotechnology Policy aims to propel Zimbabwe”s development by advancing biotechnology in key areas such as agriculture, healthcare, and industrial production. This policy is reinforced by the National Biotechnology Authority (NBA), established through the 2006 National Biotechnology Authority Act, which oversees biotechnology research, applications, and promotes biosafety to safeguard human health and the environment. The policy also commits to allocating 0.5 percent of the Gross Domestic Product to support biotechnology research and development.
The NBA organized the Biotechnology Expo to showcase the latest advancements in the field and stimulate discussions on biotechnology”s role in promoting sustainable development. Held from October 22 to 23 at the University of Zimbabwe Innovation Hub, the expo carried the theme: “Innovating Heritage: Pioneering Industrialisation through Biotechnology.” It attracted participants from academia, industry, government, and international organizations to explore the immense potential of biotechnology in solving both national and global issues.
During her address, Professor Sithole Niang also mentioned the ongoing moratorium on genetically modified organisms (GMOs), noting that current regulations restrict GM research to registered facilities, which she deemed a barrier to innovation and competitiveness.
The government”s cautious approach aims to ensure the safety of biotechnology-derived products for consumption and environmental health. “Regulations must ensure the safety of plants, pesticides, and food supplies,” she stated, underscoring the need for government involvement in the development, utilization, and marketing of these products.
Professor Ereck Chakauya, a notable figure in biotechnology from the AUDA NEPAD Southern Africa Network for Biosciences (AUDA NEPAD SANBio), emphasized the necessity for improved collaboration between researchers and the private sector to enhance the commercialization of research outcomes.
Professor Fanuel Tagwira, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, acknowledged the significance of hosting the expo. “This event marks a pivotal moment in our efforts to promote innovation, scientific progress, and sustainable development through biotechnology in Zimbabwe,” he stated.
Defined as the application of biological systems to produce goods and services, biotechnology holds the promise to revolutionize critical sectors such as medicine and agriculture if effectively harnessed. The NBA has played a significant role in leveraging local resources to develop homegrown products through biotechnological innovations, including the successful commercialization of products like Mapfura Wine and Cofsil cough syrup.
