Harnessing the benefits of Agricultural Biotechnology in South Africa: The Bt maize case study. Dr Nompumelelo H. Obokoh

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1 Harnessing the benefits of Agricultural Biotechnology in South Africa: The Bt maize case study 1 Dr Nompumelelo H. Obokoh

2 Content Challenges faced by small holder farmers Production per unit area Biotechnology a tool to enhance productivity Maize damages due to pest attack Interventions by AfricaBio Bt maize case study 2

3 Agriculture in South Africa Small holder farmers characterized by traditional, low technology, small scale communal sector low agricultural productivity Commercial farmers adoption of new agricultural technologies & improved seeds high agricultural productivity. Maize production by 9000 commercial farmers employed over farm workers Small holder farmers to contribute to the national maize production efficient mechanisms to optimise production per unit area.

4 Biotechnology a tool to enhance productivity Biotechnology refers to the use of living organisms or their products to modify or improve production, or processing of products for the benefit of human beings. In agriculture, the technology can play a role in the alleviation of hunger and poverty by enabling the production of more food (maize, soybean,.) Commercial farmers have since 1998 adopted such new agricultural technologies offering improved seeds (Bt maize) high agricultural productivity. Scale neutral technology - One way to optimise production per unit area for small holder farmers to contribute to the national maize production

5 African maize stem borer White maize is an important staple food in South Africa Productivity levels are lowered due to pest attacks Farmers experiences severe yield losses (5-70%) due to the African maize stem borer (Busseola fusca) Insecticides not widely adopted high costs & most cases health hazards inappropriate use of cheap insecticides

6 African maize stem borer Caterpillar (Larva)

7 Many farmers don t even know their maize fields have a stem borer problem, yet these insects cost them some 400,000 tons in lost harvest each year Alternative, non-chemical, affordable and sustainable control methods of stem borers in cereal crops offer an attractive control.

8 Interventions by AfricaBio AfricaBio is a non political, non profit biotechnology association for the safe, ethical and responsible research, development and application of biotechnology and its products. The Association also serves as a forum for informed discussions on biotechnological issues in Africa. The aim of the Association is to provide a factual reference point for the safe use and responsible application of biotechnology and its products. 8

9 Relevance in SA Biotech field Controlled field trials with GMOs began in Establishment of the Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) Act, (Act No. 15 of 1997). The National Department of Agriculture issued the first commercial release permit in1997. GM maize was commercially released in GM soybeans were approved in 2000.

10 OUR MISSION To promote the safe, responsible and ethical use of biotechnology and its products by: providing balanced information on biotechnology to consumers, the media and decision makers. ensuring that all levels of society have accurate information on biotechnology. providing a regular forum for the exchange of information on biotechnology and biosafety. facilitating training, education, research and development on biotechnology in Africa. providing biotechnology stakeholders with a single voice to address policy and decision makers. stimulating the development of new biotechnology products and companies for the benefit of Africa. 10

11 Interaction with the Government Issues related to modern Biotechnology: Prompt reaction when Government requests for input into bills and regulations e.g. biotechnology strategy, Consumer Protection Act. Regulation (mandatory labeling of GMO ). Amendments/changes proposed in terms of legislation regulation GMO (GMO Act No. 17 of 1997; GMO amendment Act No.23 of 2006). Participate at international meetings as part of delegations from South Africa. Constant interaction with policy makers, provide up to date and balanced information about biotechnology and biosafety.

12 Bt Maize case study To help resource poor maize farmers improve their food security status. To demonstrate the role of biotechnology in crop production To increase farmers awareness of agricultural biotechnology, as well as its benefits. To encourage capacity building of small scale farmers in order to improve their level of food security and alleviate poverty. Encourage the acceptance of biotechnology. Stimulate discussions on biotechnology among stakeholders. To increase factual information on the safety and utility of biotechnology as a tool in agricultural production.

13 Insect control with biotechnology

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15 Smallholder farmers outreach and capacity building

16 Mr Khoza field, Winterveld Maize with Bt Maize without Bt

17 Bt technology in farmers hands

18 Comparison of cobs Bt maize Non Bt maize

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21 Bt technology in farmers hands Increase in yields Better utilization of land Improved seeds Increased income Improved pest control Safety Reduced handling of hazardous chemicals

22 Smallholder farmers outreach and capacity building

23 Farmer day Farmer s day

24 Community and farmers outreach achievements Improved yield and stabilization of crop production Technical gain in experience for the farmers and GDARD extension officers and officials Capacity building of small scale farmers Successful technology transfer and farmer empowerment Development of new emerging farmers intending to go commercial Efficient use of available natural resources Improved quality of maize production Creation of employment for participating community by involving them in planting, weeding and harvesting.

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28 Visitors from Kenya and Malawi

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30 edu/2000/gmos/index.html Anti-GMO protests

31 If anti-gm campaigners win Africa looses a key economic technology.

32 Responsible biotechnology is not the enemy, but starvation is the enemy Norman Borloug

33 Role of Scientists and Industry Promote safe biotechnology research, use and application. Act in accordance with biotechnology laws and regulations. Avoid misrepresentation or misleading information. Support the dissemination of accurate information. Support and get involved in open and informed debate on biotechnology.

34 Role of Government in Biotechnology National biosafety and regulatory legislation and structures. National policy and strategic approach on biotechnology. National input into international biosafety regulations. Information to stakeholders and public on biotechnology.

35 How do we keep you up-to to- date? Web-site at THANK YOU!!