Biotech Updates

Zimbabwean Biotech Authority Promotes Bt Cotton

August 13, 2014

Zimbabwe's National Biotechnology Authority (NBA) CEO, Dr. Jonathan Mufandaedza, told the Parliamentary committee that Zimbabwe should adopt Bt cotton because of its resistance to pest and high yield.

"Documentary evidence shows that Bt cotton seeds increase yield by 24 percent. Cotton is affected by pests, so the gene which they have put into Bt cotton seeds fights against pests," said Dr. Mufandaedza. He also mentioned that the country's cotton industry was not in good shape due to high production costs and financial returns are not commensurate. Thus, he recommended Bt cotton to address these concerns. If ever the country decides to allow Bt cotton, NBA could be the competent authority to regulate the technology, he added.

Read more at http://www.newsfiber.com/p/s/h?v=ErNUR5muxnYo%3D+YBazKkBCNlk%3D