As the latest indication of increasing global support for science-based agricultural solutions, a landmark declaration by governments from 24 African countries officially endorsed the use of biotechnology to help Africa address food security and poverty.

This year, policymakers and scientists from several African countries, including Ghana and Kenya, have made strides in agricultural biotechnology through local research and hunger-fighting initiatives. However, the significant endorsement made through a joint statement signed by all delegates at the 2nd Annual Dialogue of Ministers of Agriculture, Science and Technology was one of the strongest demonstrations to date of broad support across Africa.

The annual forum is convened “to share ideas and agree on collective actions towards enhancing agricultural productivity in Africa.” Participants at the 2nd Annual Dialogue included representatives of the Governments of Algeria, Angola, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Ethiopia, among other African countries.

The ministers in attendance, each representing their country’s Agriculture, Science and Technology ministries, signed the joint communiqué at the end of the meeting stating they will “take advantage of modern technologies such as biotechnology” and develop policies to ensure the “sustainable contribution of funds for agricultural research and innovation.”  Read more.