Biotechnology Law at Zambia
Zambia's biotechnology legal framework is primarily governed by the Biosafety Act No. 10 of 2007, which was enacted to regulate the research, development, import, export, transit, contained use, release, or placing on the market of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The Act aims to ensure that such activities do not harm human or animal health, the environment, or biodiversity .
Key Provisions of the Biosafety Act
Establishment of Regulatory Bodies: The Act established the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) and the Scientific Advisory Committee to oversee and advise on biosafety matters
Regulation of GMOs: It provides rules for the importation, development, export, research, transit, contained use, release, and marketing of GMOs.
Risk Assessment and Management: The Act sets standards for the assessment, evaluation, and management of potential risks associated with GMOs.
Liability and Redress: It includes provisions for liability and compensation in cases where GMOs cause harm to health, the environment, or biodiversity
National Biotechnology and Biosafety Policy
In 2003, Zambia adopted the National Biotechnology and Biosafety Policy to guide the safe application of biotechnology. The policy emphasizes the need to balance the benefits of biotechnology with the protection of human health, the environment, and biodiversity .
Ongoing Developments
The Zambian government is currently reviewing and updating the 2003 policy to strengthen the application of biotechnology and biosafety. A draft of the revised policy has been developed and is undergoing validation processes. Once finalized, the policy will provide a legal framework to address challenges related to biotechnology and biosafety in Zambia .
Public Engagement and Debate
The revision of the biotechnology and biosafety policy has sparked public debate. Some stakeholders have expressed concerns that the new policy may promote foreign influence on the seed sector and compromise food sovereignty by allowing the introduction of live GMOs. The government has assured that a correct and democratic procedure will be followed, with full consultation before enacting the new policy . National Biotechnology and Biosafety Policy. The government is actively reviewing and updating these frameworks to ensure they effectively address the evolving challenges and opportunities in biotechnology.
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