Biotechnology is the cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, offering potential solutions to address underlying health, livelihood, and nutrition challenges.
The Africa Biennial Biosciences Communication (ABBC 2023) Symposium, held in Nairobi, Kenya, provided a platform for experts, scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders to deliberate on the evolution of genetic improvement tools in agriculture and the pivotal role of communication in aligning these progressions with societal needs.
The symposium’s theme, “Evolution of Genetic Improvement Tools in Agriculture: Is Communication Matching Up?”, spurred illuminating discussions on the confluence of technology, communication, and sustainability.
Biotechnology is the cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, offering potential solutions to address underlying health, livelihood, and nutrition challenges. The pursuit of innovative tech-driven approaches in agriculture imparts valuable lessons for long-term food security. For instance, genome editing technologies hold the promise of nutritional enhancements and reduced reliance on agrochemicals.
Kevin Pixley, director of the Dryland Crops Program (DCP) and interim director of the Global Wheat Program, presented a case study on how communication about new breeding tools can influence sustainable food systems and a one-health focus on crop science.
He emphasized that transparent communication builds trust and empowers consumers to make informed decisions about genome-edited products. Understanding consumer questions and concerns is paramount, he noted, and advocated for tailored messaging across cultural contexts.
In the panel discussion, “Systems thinking toward sustainable food/feed supply and one health. What is the role of communication?”, experts explored the intricate web connecting food systems, human and animal health, the environment, and communication. Pixley called for a holistic approach to address the complexities of food production and consumption, advocating for a shift towards a thriving agricultural ecosystem.
The discourse highlighted the role of communication in promoting economic, social, and environmental sustainability solutions. It underscored the necessity of involving farmers, policymakers, and development partners in crafting holistic solutions. The speakers recognized the imperative to address misinformation, emphasizing the need to demonstrate the safety and benefits of genetic advancements.
Simplicity and tailored messaging emerged as crucial factors for effective communication, particularly for policymakers, farmers, and consumers. Ultimately, the panelists concurred that effective communication is indispensable in realizing the potential benefits offered by biotechnologies.
At the sorghum festival, Pixley and the DCP team showcased CIMMYT’s efforts in sorghum breeding and genetic improvement, emphasizing collaborative work with NARES partners. They highlighted the significance of co-designing, co-developing, and co-implementing projects for sustainability and shared ownership. Pixley stressed, “A successful program requires collaboration, sharing resources, and building sustainable networks.”
The symposium, where CIMMYT also exhibited millet and sorghum, illuminated the pivotal role of communication in steering genetic improvement tools in modern agriculture. Transparent, culturally sensitive, and proactive communications are crucial in garnering social acceptance for novel technologies like genome editing, ultimately contributing to sustainable food systems, enhanced livelihoods for farmers, and food security for all.