Professor Paulo Andrade, a Brazilian Scientist has said that the Gambia should adopt agricultural biotechnology to ensure food security in the country.
Professor Andrade was speaking at the Biotech Conference funded by the United States Office of Agricultural Policy. The Conference was held at the University Auditorium Brikama Campus.
“The Agricultural Biotechnology ensures food security in the world,” Professor Andrade told participants.
The Brazilian Agricultural Scientist said biotechnology is a contributing factor to food security, sustainability and climate change amongst others.
“It helps small farmers that makes food affordable to everyone,” he said.
He named the United States, Brazil, Argentina, Canada and India as the biggest Biotech crop growing countries in the world. He added that 67 countries have adopted Biotech crops since 1996.
“Agriculture is a good way of developing a country”
Professor Andrade has downplayed critics of biotechnology as fear mongers, saying possible risks could be manage through assessment mechanisms.
Bakary Trawally, former Permanent Secretary of Agriculture has a different thought saying that the Gambia is not fully prepare for the biotechnology which is beyond the local standard. He recommends tissue culture.
“There is great potential of tissue culture in The Gambia,” Mr Tarawally said.
Bubacarr Jallow, Head of Education The Gambia College also added his voice to encourage indigenousness of Agriculture. He commended the expert analysis of Professor Andrade.
Meanwhile, he called on the US Embassy to continue the support.
