The Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has hosted a joint delegation from the Ghana National Research Fund, the University of Ghana, and the Gates Foundation to deliberate on groundbreaking gene drive research aimed at combating malaria transmission across the country.
During the courtesy visit held at the Ministry’s conference room in Accra, the high-level team formally congratulated the Minister on her appointment while introducing ongoing scientific initiatives designed to explore cutting-edge vector control measures.
The engagement formed part of a broader three-day stakeholder consultation aimed at reviewing progress, regulatory preparedness, and technical requirements associated with gene drive biotechnology.
Addressing the delegation, Dr Agyeman-Rawlings was briefed on the necessity of establishing a coordinated, science-based framework that safeguards public health and environmental integrity.
The delegation sought the Minister’s guidance and institutional support to ensure Ghana’s regulatory bodies are fully equipped to oversee developments in this emerging scientific field.
Discussions focused heavily on the vital role of thorough biosafety evaluations and multi-stakeholder engagement before any potential environmental release of gene drive organisms is considered.
The meeting highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to fostering responsible scientific innovation through strong oversight, strategic partnerships, and robust national research frameworks to tackle persistent public health challenges.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
