Parliamentarians raised concerns on Wednesday about the potential importation of genetically modified organisms (GMO) maize into Zimbabwe in response to the El Nino-induced drought affecting the Southern African region. President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared the drought a national disaster, highlighting the urgent need for food aid for over 2.7 million people.
During a media briefing at the State House, Mnangagwa emphasized that the government’s current policy prohibits the production of GMO products locally, citing the need for further scientific studies on food production. This stance has raised questions among lawmakers, including Mashonaland West Youth Quota representative Mutsawashe Ziyambi, who inquired about the government’s position on importing GMO maize to address the food crisis.
Acting government business leader in Parliament, Amon Murwira, assured lawmakers that while the government may allow the importation of GMO maize under strict conditions to prevent environmental contamination, all imported maize would be processed before consumption. Murwira emphasized that regardless of the source of the maize, whether from UN agencies, NGOs, or private companies, it would be milled or ground before distribution to ensure compliance with regulations.
In response to queries about the cost and volume of maize imports, the Speaker redirected the discussion back to GMOs, emphasizing the government’s focus on ensuring food security and regulatory compliance. Additionally, concerns were raised about the policy on GMO maize farming in Zimbabwe, to which Murwira clarified that current experiments are limited to cotton, with strict oversight from the National Bio-Technology Authority.
Overall, the government’s stance on GMO maize imports and farming in Zimbabwe underscores the importance of balancing food security needs with environmental and regulatory considerations. As the country grapples with the impact of the drought, policymakers are navigating complex issues to ensure sustainable solutions for the population’s food needs.
