SciDev.Net

Kenya's parliament expects to approve its much-delayed biosafety bill before the Christmas break.

Biotechnology will not offer the full solution to Africa's food problems, warn scientists at the All Africa Congress on Biotechnology.

A UN report cites a lack of emphasis on agricultural research in development policy as a key reason for African farming problems.

Agricultural research advances in Africa — including seeds that can improve crop yields — are not reaching farmers, say top scientists.

A senior African Union official has urged African leaders to allow commercial growing of GM crops.

Scientists from Africa have revealed the origins of the virulent maize streak virus, which causes devastating disease on the continent.

Uganda has approved its first National Biotechnology and Biosafety Policy, for promotion and regulation of biotechnology use.

A round-up of news from or about South Asia for the period 1–15 March 2008.

The African component of an initiative aiming to provide small farmers with tailor-made rice varieties has been launched in Benin.

A round up of news from or about Sub-Saharan Africa for the period 25 February–12 March 2008.

Uganda has approved field trials of a Bt cotton variety, which is resistant to the crop-destroying bollworm pest.

Kenyan scientists have developed a maize variety resistant to the larger grain borer, a pest that feeds on stored grains.

Zambia has rejected new calls to allow GM technology and products into the country.

Researchers have identified an iron supplement that can reduce rates of anaemia in children in developing countries.

Mali has adopted a ten-year plan to develop and fund local agricultural science.

Zambia has taken steps towards biosafety legislation with a bill to deal with genetically modified organisms.

Members of the Economic Community of West African States have agreed to embrace biotechnology, and have adopted a regional action plan.

A dozen universities in Africa are developing shared doctoral degree programmes aimed at boosting agricultural research in their regions.

Mozambique will lead sub-Saharan Africa's 'green revolution' by using science and innovation to improve crop varieties.

Rwanda and the United States have signed a joint declaration to share research data and expertise in specific scientific research topics.