BOBO-DIOULASSO — The National Biosafety Agency (ANB) hosted a workshop on Wednesday to discuss and raise awareness about the regional regulation ‘C/REG.04/09/2020’, which focuses on preventing biotechnological risks within the ECOWAS, UEMOA, and CILSS regions. This event brought together national stakeholders engaged in biosecurity to deepen their understanding of the regulation’s implications.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Director General of the ANB, the regulation addresses critical gaps in the national law from 2012, particularly in the management of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and related cross-border issues. Dr. Somé highlighted that having consistent regulations across neighboring countries facilitates better collaboration and enforcement. During the workshop, attendees received comprehensive briefings on the ANB’s role and the specifics of the regulation, which also includes provisions for biotech innovations such as the appointment of expert members to scientific committees—a capability not provided under national law.
The workshop, presided over by Souleymane Drabo, the technical advisor to the governor of Hauts-Bassins, was seen as a pivotal step in aligning West African nations on biotechnological practices that impact social, economic, and sustainable development. François Tani, president of the National Federation of Biotechnological Farmers, emphasized the importance of community involvement in discussions about GMOs, noting the public’s growing sensitivity to these issues. The event, funded by the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), signifies a significant effort to standardize and enhance biosecurity measures across the region.