Govt reviews GMO ban

The Zimbabwean Government is reviewing the ban imposed on the growing and importation of genetically modified organisms, a Cabinet minister said last week.
Science and Technology Minister Dr Heneri Dzinotyiwei told Parliament consultations were going on among relevant Government departments before a decision could be made.
“We have to consult with other players such as the ministries of Agriculture and Health. The review is taking place and once we have undertaken it, it will lead to new regulations being imposed,” he said.
Minister Dzinotyiwei was responding to a question on whether the Government was considering a review of its position on GMOs.
He said the subject of GMOs was controversial and needed due consideration before any decision was made.
The minister said while society had reservations in terms of the potential impact of GMOs on health and the environment, extensive studies by bodies such as the World Health Organisation had suggested they did not have side effects.
He noted that GMO maize could be imported under strict supervision by Government agencies to ensure that the maize was not turned into seed. – New Ziana.