FARA recognises the potential of modern technologies (such as biotechnology) to drive growth in agricultural productivity. However, harnessing this potential requires these technologies to be adequately understood and accepted and appropriately applied by African countries.
In order to increase the safe use of biotechnologies, in accordance with recommendations made by its General Assemblies in 2003 and 2005 and at various FARA Board meetings, FARA established the African Biotechnology and Biosafety Policy Platform (ABBPP). Its purpose is to facilitate biotechnology and biosafety policy dialogue and stakeholder consensus building. Many research and regulatory bodies exist that are concerned with biotechnology and biosafety at the continental, sub-regional and national levels. FARA is facilitating interaction and discussions between the different actors with a view to promoting harmonised, efficient and safe use of biotechnology for smallholder development.
ABBPP contributes to the establishment of an enabling policy environment that will allow Africa to take full, but safe, advantage of biotechnology and related sciences. Through such interventions, private sector companies are encouraged to invest in technologies that directly benefit smallholder farmers and pastoralists.
