187 – African Biotechnology Update

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There is sad irony that the African continent has the most potential benefit from crop biotechnology, yet has the least access to the technology.  The bottlenecks are political, not scientific, as excellent technology is being developed and procured by African agricultural technology groups. Much of the anti-biotech sentiment is shaped by U.S. and E.U. non-governmental organizations, particularly activist organizations that flood the continent with disturbing disinformation.  The technology deficits affect smallholder farmers, particularly women.  Professor Jennifer Thomson has been a leading voice in biotechnology and women’s advocacy in Africa.  She shares her stories and views, and helps us understand the complexities of getting the best technology to people that could benefit from its implementation.