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Genetically modified organisms

Regulate the transfer, handling, use and release of genetically modified organisms in order to minimize the potential risks to biodiversity and human health.

Biotechnology and Genetically Modified Organisms

The release of genetically modified organisms into the environment raises many questions about safety, ecological and agricultural impacts, genetic diversity, socio-economic effects, and the appropriateness of using genetically engineered organisms in particular applications. The risks involved are often difficult to predict and determine and have the potential, if not controlled and monitored, to trigger a cascade of uncertain effects and reduce natural biodiversity. The need to regulate the industry to minimize and avoid adverse impacts is widely recognized by both industry and other stakeholders.    more

Policy and Strategy

Government has been involved in international negotiations concerning the development of a Biosafety Protocol for the safe handling, use and transfer of genetically modified organisms. A proactive and precautionary approach should be taken with regard to the transfer, handling, use and release of genetically modified organisms. The need to balance the risks associated with genetically modified organisms with the potential social, economic and environmental benefits derived therefrom will be taken into consideration.

To achieve the objective, Government, in collaboration with interested and affected parties, will:

1. Establish effective management and control measures to regulate the transfer, handling, use and release of genetically modified organisms. Review, streamline and strengthen existing and proposed legislation if necessary; and continue to participate in international efforts to develop a Biosafety Protocol for the safe handling, use and transfer of genetically modified organisms
2. Support the adoption of a Code of Conduct for those importing, releasing or undertaking research on genetically modified organisms.
3. Support research that furthers an understanding of the potential ecological, social and economic impacts of genetically modified organisms.
4. Improve public education and awareness concerning the risks and benefits of biotechnology, including genetically modified organisms.
5. Develop and support national training and capacity-building programmes in risk assessment and risk management for the safe transfer, handling, use and release of genetically modified organisms.
6. Negotiate and liaise with neighbouring countries to maximise commonalities and minimise conflicts between policies, legislation and practices relating to genetically modified organisms; and promote capacity-building in biosafety within the southern African region, through, inter alia, related programmes within the United Nations Environment Programme, and the Regional Biosafety Focal Point in Harare. In this regard special consideration will be given to the risk of unintended movements of genetically modified organisms across national boundaries.