Biotechnology advances are reshaping agriculture and improving food security among other spheres. However, agricultural biotechnology is a relatively misunderstood science, especially in Africa. As with most new ideas, cutting through the myths and misinformation is a daunting but necessary task, which if not handled well can rollback any advantages inherent in the technology.
In the face of a rapidly growing population, declining agricultural productivity, climate change and reduced resources available for agricultural research, policymakers are pressed to make the right decisions and are looking for guidance.
What is OFAB
The Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology in Africa (OFAB) is a project that facilitates constructive conversations among key stakeholders and decision-makers on agricultural biotechnology. For both policymakers and the larger public, OFAB facilitates quality engagements and conversations on the safety and benefits of modern biotechnology.
OFAB, a project of African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) is currently being implemented in Ten African countries namely—Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Mozambique and Malawi with other more countries about to join the growing OFABIAN family.
Why is OFAB important
OFAB was established by AATF in 2006, as a platform that contributes to creation of an enabling environment for biotechnology research, development, and deployment for the benefit of smallholder farmers in Africa. AATF is an international not-for-profit organization that is empowering smallholder farmers across Sub-Saharan Africa with a wide choice of agricultural innovations that contribute to food and nutrition security, generate health and wealth for their families and communities. AATF works with public and private partners across the value chain to access, develop, deliver, and commercialize innovative technologies that bring meaningful change to Africa’s agriculture. AATF is driven by a vision of a prosperous and food secure Africa, where millions of smallholder farmers can transform African agriculture with the same innovations that are transforming food production around the world. AATF believes that farmers in Africa will become globally competitive through utilization of the modern technologies. In addition, access to agricultural innovations will propel production and value addition into optimal levels as seen in developing countries that have embraced modern technologies.
OFAB Malawi Chapter
OFAB Malawi chapter is hosted by National Commission for Science and Technology (NCST). It was launched on 1st April 2022 at BICC by former Minister of Education Science and Technology Right honourable Agnes Nyalonje. In her remarks the minister acknowledged that OFAB is an African-led platform that promotes dialogue, awareness, and informed decision-making on agricultural biotechnology. It brings together scientists, policymakers, farmers, media, and the public to discuss how modern biotechnology can address challenges such as food insecurity, pests, diseases, and climate change.
Key roles of OFAB in Malawi:
- Creates awareness about agricultural biotechnology
- Facilitates dialogue between researchers, farmers, and policymakers.
- Supports evidence-based policymaking in biotechnology and biosafety.
- Promotes adoption of safe, beneficial technologies that enhance productivity.
These key roles of OFAB are in line with NCST’s mission which is to promote, support, coordinate and regulate the development and application of science, technology and innovation (RSTI) to create wealth and improve the quality of life.
Over the years, NCST has played major roles in setting up biotechnology and biosafety frameworks and supported research and innovation for genetically modified crops in the country. These are in line with the aspirations of the country through both MIP-1 and MW 2063, which recognises science, technology and innovation, including agriculture biotechnology, as key enablers for the attainment of three key pillars for creation of an inclusively wealthy and self-reliant nation, namely: Agriculture Productivity and Commercialisation, Industrialisation and Urbanisation.
