A Scientist at the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), Prof. Olalekan Akinbo says genome editing (Ged), an innovative solution, is a critical strategy in the fight against food insecurity.
Akinbo said this on Thursday in Abuja during an interview.
Genome editing involves the alteration of genomic Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) at a precise target location across diverse cell types and organisms.
It encompasses the insertion, removal and replacement of DNA, leading to the inactivation of target genes, acquisition of new genetic traits, and the rectification of pathogenic gene mutation,
Pathogenic gene mutation refers to a change in gene’s DNA sequence that increases the risk of developing a disease or genetic disorder.
He expressed optimism that leveraging the technology would help to address Africa’s urgent need for sustainable food systems.
He said in recent years genome editing technology became the most effective approach to investigate gene function, examine the pathophysiology of genetic disorders, among others.
Akinbo, who serves as the Technical Lead for the Genome Editing Initiative of the AUDA-NEPAD Centre of Excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation, expressed concern over Africa’s increasing population and environmental issues.
According to him, these issues have been exacerbated by climate change and other human action-induced climatic changes which pose significant risks to the continent’s food systems.
The expert said Africa’s population was projected to exceed 1.48 billion, with over 282 million people, which was almost 20 per cent of the population undernourished in 2022.
Accordingly, he said, this reflected an increase of 57 million people since the onset of COVID-19 pandemic.
“Additionally, around 868 million people experienced moderate to severe food insecurity, with over one-third of this population representing 342 million individuals, faced severe food insecurity.
“This dire situation necessitates intentional actions by African nations to harness current advances, science, and technology to enhance productivity and healthy food production.
“This would, thereby, address food insecurity in Africa as Goal 5 of Agenda 2063 advocates for modern agriculture to enhance production, productivity, and value addition,” he said.
Akinbo said that improving the involvement of youngsters in agriculture research and innovation, particularly through the use of Ged tools was the way to go.
He maintained that this would not only contribute to addressing existing disparity but also guarantee that the continent capitalised on its youthful demography to transform its food systems.
“Given the substantial population of young people, the implementation of supporting policies and initiatives for inclusive youth development is increasingly essential,” he said.
He urged African governments to establish appropriate policies and infrastructure that would enable young scientists to contribute to research and development towards addressing the food insecurity facing the continent.
NAN
