Zimbabwe's Biosafety Authority Calls for More Awareness on Biotech

The Zimbabwean National Biosafety Authority chief executive, Dr. Jonathan Mufandaedza has urged scientists to raise awareness on biotechnology issues. In his remarks during a two-day science communication workshop, Dr. Mufandaedza stressed the need for local scientists and scientific institutions to take practical steps to improve their communication skills in order to raise public awareness and stimulate dialogue on biotechnology issues in the country.

"Scientists need to develop strategies to engage the public on biotechnology issues so that our people are informed and we allay the fears that come with the development of new technologies. We realize that we do not have the capacity to relay messages on biotechnology to the public and training on science communication is an important step towards engaging the public" he said.

Dr. Mufandaedza recognized the necessity to empower Zimbabweans so that they take advantage of the benefits of modern biotechnology while placing them in a position to make informed choices on appropriate and desirable technologies for the country. He informed the participants on the ongoing research at the country's research institutions and sought the media's help in educating the public about the research outputs.

The workshop was organized by the National Biosafety Authority in association with the National Research Foundation and the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement.

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