farming technologies including biotechnology, hybrid seeds, digital tools, and machinery in order to revolutionize the continent’s food production.
According to Okogbenin, enacting biotechnology policies and biosafety laws is important to establish a positive environment for its research and implementation.
According to Okogbenin, biotechnology is not considered as a choice anymore, but rather as a requirement that should be used in tandem with traditional breeding approaches to boost genetic advantages for increased crop productivity and value chain transformation in Africa. According to Okogbenin, Africa is slowly progressing as a result of breakthroughs in breeding, from traditional to genetic engineering and now to genome editing. He advocated for a focus on agro-input dealer accreditation and digital tools to improve access to high-quality agro-inputs.
Okogbenin advised the African regulators to avoid imposing rigid regulatory systems that hamper the adoption of innovative plant breeding techniques. He added that the technology will help Africa modernize its agriculture systems and stimulate economic growth by complementing conventional breeding for optimal benefits. In order to continue the growth of agricultural biotechnology in Africa, Okogbenin called on supporters to voice out in favor of it, highlighting the benefits for farmers and consumer preferences.
