Biotech Updates

Uganda Agri Minister Supports Biotech

July 6, 2016

"I am an ally of scientists and I support biotechnology. We do not need to implore people to embrace science and technology; it's the way to go". This was one of the remarks made by Uganda's State Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Christopher Kibazanga, while launching the ISAAA report on the 20th anniversary of global commercialization of biotech crops on June 29, 2016 in Kampala. Hon. Kibazanga was astonished that the world has been using biotech crops for over 20 years, but Uganda is lagging behind in making necessary steps to give farmers access to these improved crops. He called upon all Ugandans to support biotechnology and other modern science in light of current challenges like booming population, land scarcity and climate change. 

The report launch was attended by over 30 participants, including journalists, scientists, members of the civil society, and Members of Parliament. During a panel discussion on the report findings, meeting participants expressed disappointment over the fact that despite Uganda is a regional leader in agri-biotech research, it is lagging behind in converting this research into tangible benefits for Ugandan farmers partly due to absence of requisite regulatory structures. Speaking about the food security situation in Bugisu, Eastern Uganda, Hon. Rosemary Mutunyo Masaba, MP for Bubulo West, noted that population explosion has led to food shortage and land scarcity, overuse, and infertility. She therefore cautioned, "If we do not have better crops, we are not going to feed our people." 

The Minister and the Lady Member of Parliament pledge that as champions of the National Biotechnology and Biosafety Bill, they will work with their colleagues to make sure that this Bill is passed into law by the current parliament soon. 

For more details, contact the Uganda Biotechnology Information Center coordinator at ubic.nacrri@gmail.com.