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This issue takes us to Sudan where Dr. Rasha Omer, Deputy Director of Biotechnology and Biosafety at the Agricultural Research Corporation (ARC), makes a case for genetically modified drought tolerant food crops. In 2017, Sudan was the only other African country, besides South Africa, to plant biotech cotton. The country planted 192,000 hectares of insect resistant (Bt) cotton, an increase from the 120,600 hectares planted in 2016.
In our story of the month segment, Ms. Obaiya Utoblo, a PhD student from the University of Ghana, reflects on her PhD journey and calls for more inclusion of women voices in food production debates. The video of the month highlights how Tigray Biotechnology Center in Ethiopia contributes to the country’s food security and agro-industry sector.
Lastly, the United Nations biodiversity conference is scheduled to take place in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, from 17 to 29 November 2018. A number of critical issues will be addressed at the conference including digital sequence information, synthetic biology, and other effective area-based conservation measures. ISAAA AfriCenter will be actively participating to dispel misconceptions that could adversely affect decisions at the meeting, and attend events convened to discuss contentious agenda items. Follow our twitter handle @afri_isaaa for real-time updates from the conference.
Happy reading!
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