Zim maintains ban on GMO seed varieties

Development Minister Joseph Made said local scientists develop seeds that are suitable for the country’s soils and not harmful to the health of the people.
“Our scientists have over the years developed seeds that are in balance with our climate and soil.
“These GMOs will bring various conditions and complications to the environment and people’s health,” he said.
Dr Made said the Government would strive to ensure that the seed market                     was protected and dominated by local players.
“Zimbabwe is the largest white maize seed producer in the world and we do not want to contaminate our local seed by introducing GMOs,” he said.
He acknowledged achievements of the local industries on certified highbred seeds, chemical and fertilizer formulations.
“Such investments and initiatives should be extended and decentralised to promote higher uptake by farmers in outlying areas,” he said.
Dr Made said production of GMOs needed special conditions that would cost the nation more.
“They need more electricity, expensive technologies and expertise that will cost the nation a lot of money,” he said.
Meanwhile, scientific research shows that GMOs contain toxic substances which are less nutritious than non-GMOs and have negative effects on humans and the environment. — New Ziana.