Enhancing the Adoption of Responsible Genome Editing Innovation for African Agriculture Development
In Africa, millions of smallholder farmers are struggling to feed the ever-increasing people of the continent. The increment of the population along with the existing climate change drives us to use novel biotechnological tools including genome editing to improve the productivity, nutritionally quality crops as well as for the resilience of climate shocks. Despite its significant role in transforming agriculture and ensuring climate resilience, the adoption of genome editing across Africa remains slow and inconsistent.
The limited integration of genome editing particularly in crop improvement is not primarily a technological challenge but rather a lack of strong collaboration among the member state and the presence of fragmented Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) policy coordination. Inadequate research infrastructure and limited skilled manpower are the major obstacles to boost such innovative technology. Moreover, the misconception regarding genome edited crops in many Africa countries that consider them the same as genetically modified organisms (GMOs) hinders the adoption of the technology.
During Evi4Dev conference that was held 6-8 May 2025, Nairobi, Kenya, a paper was presented entitled “Novel biotechnological tools and their role in climate resilience and crop improvement in Africa: Lesson learned from recent achievements from an oil-crop Ethiopian mustard (Brassica carinata)”. Under this topic, a valuable discussion was made which gives also an opportunity to present some interesting findings from genome editing experiment conducted on oil-crop, Ethiopian mustard for its nutritional and bio-industrial application.
At the time of discussion, the participants highlighted the following priority actions to accelerate the responsible development and uptake of genome-editing technologies in Africa:
1. Promote Harmonized Policy and Governance Frameworks
Participants emphasized the importance of effectively implementing existing policy frameworks on genome editing within Africa's agricultural sector. Strengthening regional collaboration and harmonizing regulatory and governance approaches among member states.
2. Address Institutional, Infrastructure, and Human Capacity Gaps
The discussion underscored the need to invest in institutional strengthening, modern research infrastructure, and human resource development. Closing these gaps will improve countries' readiness to develop, evaluate, regulate, and deploy genome-editing technologies for sustainable agricultural development.
3. Enhance Public Awareness Through Evidence-Based Communication
Participants recommended establishing inclusive awareness and engagement platforms to improve public understanding of genome-editing technologies. Such initiatives should disseminate scientifically sound, evidence-based information to address misconceptions, build public trust, and support informed decision-making among stakeholders.
4. Leverage Practical Expertise for Effective Technology Transfer
The meeting stressed the value of engaging experts with hands-on experience in developing and applying genome-editing technologies. Their practical knowledge and real-world experience will facilitate effective capacity building, mentorship, and technology transfer, complement theoretical knowledge and accelerate adoption across African countries
In general, the STI policy systems in the member states can more effectively guide the responsible adoption of genome editing in Africa whereby the technology. Moreover, it is vital to generate evidence-based recommendations for strengthening transformative STI governance that enables responsible innovation while ensuring public trust, institutional learning and inclusive participation whereby such efforts contribute to the realisation of Agenda 2063.
Misteru Tesfaye Woldeyohannes (PhD)
Senior Oilseeds Breeder and Biotechnologist
Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR)
P.O.Box 2003, Addis Ababa Ethiopia, Mobile: +251911319994/ Email: woldemisteru@gmail.com