MEMBERS of Parliament (MPs) have commended scientists who are carrying out the Genetically Modified (GM) cotton trial, in Kasese district.
“This cotton is really good. The height is superb. Scientists have done a great job on this,” Lastus Serunjogi, the vice-chair of the agricultural committee, said.
Charles Ngabirano, the chairperson of the science and technology committee, was also full of praises.
“Uganda has capable scientists who are doing a commendable job. The trial is showing positive results. We need to support them by ensuring that there are laws to enable them conduct their research without any disturbance,” he said.
The MPs were touring a GM cotton farm that was established in Mubuku prison farm in Kasese district.
Ngabirano assured scientists the MPs would advocate for a ministry that handles science and technology so that all science-related activities are co-ordinating smoothly.
“We know the biotechnology and biosafety Bill has delayed because it is under the Ministry of Finance, but we shall advocate for the creation of a science ministry to coordinate such activities,” said Ngabirano.
Asked whether the country needs GM crops, Ngabirano said; “Scientifically, GM crops are not bad and such crops can help the country solve problems of food shortage brought up by climate change.”
He, however, noted that the best GM crops should be those generated by Ugandan scientists.
Ngabirano also said that though people still have fears for the GM crops, scientists should involve the beneficiaries of the technologies in their developments.
“Majority of the farmers tend to compare science to a bomb, so scientists should explain to farmers about their activities, while still in initial stages,” he said.
