I am currently doing a research project about Genetic Engineering and Food security of corn and wheat in South Africa. What would you say would be a good introduction to mention to the project?

Expert response from Bongani Maseko

Acting Chief Executive Officer and Project Manager, AfricaBio

Tuesday, 12/04/2016 15:41

Thank you for having an interest on food security in South Africa. Here are some important facts you may need to consider as you write an introduction to your project about South Africa imports, uses and exports GMOs. The country has more than 2.7 million hectares under GM crops (86% corn, 92% soybean and 100% of our cotton is genetically modified to be either insect and/or herbicide tolerant.) No GM wheat is planted in the country. South Africa is currently the leading producer of GM crops in Africa, ranked the ninth mega-biotech country globally. GM crops were introduced 18 years ago as part of the country‘s strategy to address food security, since the country is prone to drought. GM crops are playing a significant role in helping small and large farmers improve their yield while decreasing crop production inputs costs.

 

Despite the political and economic advances made since 1994, persistent poverty and food insecurity remain a challenge in house hold levels both in rural and urban areas. The current drought situation had a negative impact on the grain crops, especially corn, because it is the staple food for many poor households. The prize of maize increased drastically (50%) during the last few months. The knock-on effect on food prices are expected to sky rocket by as much as 25 percent. These adverse conditions have placed ordinary South Africans, already struggling to meet their basic household needs, in an ever more vulnerable situation.