CC image courtesy of Yann.
Public awareness should be raised on Zimbabwean biotechnology, the National Biotechnology Authority (NBA) has said.
Local scientists and scientific institutions were encouraged to improve their communication skills to inspire biotechnology conversations in the country.
Jonathan Mufandaedza, chief executive at NBA, acknowledged Zimbabwe’s current lack of capacity in biotechnology communication to inform the public.
Addressing participants at a NBA science communication workshop, he stated science communication is a step in the right direction.
Mufandaedza said: “Scientists need to develop strategies to engage the public on biotechnology issues so that our people are informed and we allay the fears that come with the development of new technologies,” The Herald reported.
Biotechnology, including the issue of genetically modified organisms (GMO), is a hot topic in the country as the ongoing debate about its possible dangers rages on.
HumanIPO reported last week on Zimbabwe’s outdated food checking technology.
However, Mufandaedza says biotechnology stretches further than only GMO food, although the attention it attracts signals the need for empowering the public through informative education efforts.
“My heart bleeds because there is very limited discussion and engagement on biotechnology issues in the country. There are various branches of biotechnology and public understanding of these is critical,” he said.
He explained sustainability will be ensured with the enablement of the public to make informed choices based on technology insight.
Journalist Adele Baleta said scientists should network to develop trust relationships which will benefit the public as it receives information to aid in making decisions.
“Mistrust between scientists and journalists makes it difficult to communicate accurate and balanced information to the public,” she said.
“Lack of transparency, confusion and mistrust dominate the GMO debate and we need to build partnerships to avoid misleading the public.”
