Biotech Updates

Scientist Reviews Adoption of Biotech Crops in Africa

July 8, 2011

Commercial adoption of crop biotechnology in Africa is very low, considering that the continent needs more food to feed the growing population. Ademola Adenle of the United Nations University-Institute of Advanced Studies published a review on the status of biotech crop countries South Africa, Burkina Faso, and Egypt.

Based on the review of relevant papers, there is a steady growth of biotech crops production in the three biotech countries in Africa, especially in South Africa. In the three countries it was evident that biotech crops have socio-economic benefits. However, limited resources, biosafety, and inadequate infrastructure remain as major concerns in the continent.

"Crop biotechnology has potentials for improving qualities and yields of farm produce and ensuring adequate nutrition and food security in Africa," Adenle concluded.

Read the complete article at http://www.ipcbee.com/vol7/41-ICBFS2011S20027.pdf.