Source: Cornell Alliance for Science (via Genetic Literacy Project) – 22 May 2020 

Though only a few African countries are now growing genetically modified (GM) crops commercially, governments across the continent are increasingly recognizing the crucial role that biotechnology can play in improving food security.

In response, African governments are moving to establish an enabling policy framework to support adoption of biotechnology, including GM crops and derived products…

Currently, only farmers in South Africa, Swaziland and Sudan are growing GM crops commercially. Ethiopia, Malawi, Nigeria and Kenya have approved the release of GM crops, but just the latter two countries have begun the rollout to farmers. About a dozen other African countries have GM crop research projects under way, with some of the experiments ongoing for more than a decade now.

Case studies from Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria and Uganda highlighted in the paper show broader agricultural policies in these countries are encouraging support for GM crops on the continent because the policies are science focused.

Source: Stock Journal – 22 May 2020

While this year’s crops are only just going in, grain growers are being advised to start preparing for the 2021 season if they want to use GM technology.

Grain Producers SA’s Adrian McCabe says croppers need to start researching GM varieties and trial data because they may need to give pre-order indications to seed companies as early as next month…

14 May 2020. Source: Grain Producers SA Media Release

After 16 long years, South Australian growers are one step closer to having the freedom of choice to grow the same crops as their mainland interstate counterparts.

This follows the passage of the Genetically Modified Crops Management (Designated Area) Amendment Bill through State Parliament today, which Grain Producers SA has welcomed.

The Bill will enable growers on mainland SA to access GM crop varieties while allowing a path for those councils which believe they derive a premium the ability to apply to the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development in the next six months to retain the moratorium for that council area.

The final decision on whether that exemption is granted will reside with the Minister.

GPSA CEO Caroline Rhodes said the passage of the Bill reflected GPSA’s strong commitment to restoring grower choice in South Australia.

“This Bill establishes a level playing field for South Australian growers with their mainland interstate counterparts,” she said…

See also:

GM Crops Bill Passes Parliament – Tim Whetstone, SA Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Media Release

Science finally prevails with GM cropping getting the green light in South Australia – CropLife Australia Media Release