Call to research more on plant genetic resources

Sifelani Tsiko

Innovations Editor

Agricultural experts have called for more research to advance the conservation and use of plant genetic diversity for the well-being of present and future generations.

The experts said this at a seminar that was organised by the Community Technology Development Trust (CTDT) in partnership with the Genetic Resources Biotechnology Institute (GRBI), the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, and the University of Zimbabwe to raise awareness on plant genetic resources.

“We want you as students and researchers to better understand the importance of plant genetic resources in Zimbabwe and multilateral environmental agreements to which Zimbabwe is a signatory,” Dr Kudzai Kusena, a representative from FAO said.

“There are many areas you can explore and conduct research on and help come up with innovations to help Zimbabwe cope with shocks to agricultural productivity such as climate.”

Biodiversity richness and abundance of natural resources are central to economic prosperity and cultural and genetic heritage.

Onismus Chipfunde, head of GRBI, highlighted the significant strides Zimbabwe has made in implementing the FAO International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture.

“A notable achievement is the adoption of a 10-year Strategy and Action Plan aimed at promoting the conservation and sustainable use of the country’s diverse crop genetic resources,” he said.

“The National Gene Bank has successfully collected and safeguarded over 7 000 accessions. These collections are integral to research programmes focused on restoring lost crop diversity and supporting crop development initiatives.”

Nyaradzai Chisango, a representative from CTDT, shared insights into practices that promote agro-biodiversity conservation, including community seed banks and sustainable use mechanisms.

The seminar, titled “Global to Local Perspectives and Practices in PGRFA Management” was held at UZ and attracted young academics and agricultural professionals, lecturers, breeders, and representatives from civil society organizations.

Zimbabwe has an impressive biodiversity collection with 5 930 plant species, 670 bird species, 270 mammal species, 156 reptile species, 120 amphibian species and 141 fish species found inside and outside of protected areas.