Africa itself should invest in transgenic crops, according to Robert
Paarlberg, Associate at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at
Harvard University.
In his interview, Paarlberg stated that the continent is lagging behind in
terms of agricultural biotechnology use.

Aside from agri-biotech, there are other aspects of agriculture that Africa
should consider: the use of fertilizer, access to electricity and powered
machinery, and proper irrigation systems.

Genetically modified (GM) crops are not widely accepted in Africa, with the
exception of the Republic of South Africa.

African governments practice the precautionary principle with regard to
GMOs, after what Europe has been doing due in part to the fact that the
major market for African agricultural commodities exists in Europe, and a
big part of financial assistance comes from the European Union.

To change the anti-GMO mindset, African scientists working in African
research institutes should develop genetically engineered crops in Africa,
specifically tailored to the needs of small farmers in Africa, and funded by
philanthropic foundations.

The current increase in world prices will trigger the influx of financial
aid for agricultural development in Africa. If these responses will
continue, there is nothing to stop Africa from seeing its productivity
climb.

www.checkbiotech.org