Nigeria is set to discuss on strategize on the use and adoption of genome editing technology in boosting agricultural productivity with five member states of the African Union(AU).
The country is hosting a three day event writing workshop to develop a Genome Editing National Communication Strategy for Nigeria starting December 12 to 14 in Lagos. The workshop is also meant to underscore the importance of this cutting-edge technology, deepen public understanding as well as build confidence in agricultural research and biotechnology.
AUDA-NEPAD project
The AUDA-NEPAD project was initiated and driven by member states of Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Ethiopia, Eswantini and Zambia. The Director-General of NABDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, said the broad spectrum of stakeholders should look forward to and be responsive to the adoption and domestication of the genome editing tool and products in the country.
the Ag. Director, Genetics, Genomics & Bioinformatics Department, Dr Shakirat Ajenifujah-Solebo, who is facilitating the AUDA-NEPAD Project, said that the workshop would bring together Nigerian scientists, media and relevant stakeholders. This would explore outcomes of the appraisal exercise conducted during the in-country consultations which sought the buy-in by national stakeholders.
“The goal of the Genome Editing (GEd) project is to foster a broader understanding of GEd among different stakeholder groups through communication and advocacy for enhanced uptake of the tool to optimise agriculture in Africa. This includes support to the achievement of key development outcomes, such as adapting to climate change and reducing poverty and sustainability of food systems,” said Dr Shakirat.
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