The recent 3rd Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Conference held in Nairobi, Kenya culminated in a firm resolution to establish a regional genetic repository in East Africa. This store aims to safeguard genetic materials for posterity, thus acknowledging the imperative need to mitigate the loss of genetic diversity in the region. Additionally, the conference confronted prevalent misconceptions surrounding Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) technology and underscored the necessity of raising awareness and comprehension of this technology for the region’s benefit.
The conference underscored the potential advantages of GMOs in bolstering food security, bolstering agricultural exports, advancing nutrition, and eradicating hunger in the region. The gathering also recognised that much of the resistance to GMOs stemmed from misinformation and hearsay. Consequently, experts were urged to simplify the technology to facilitate open discourse and well-informed decision-making.
In tandem with genetic preservation and GMOs, the conference placed significant emphasis on the importance of unfettered trade and movement of food products across the region. It called for the elimination of non-tariff barriers that impede such movement, considering scenarios where one Partner State boasts a food surplus while others grapple with food scarcity.
Furthermore, the forum advocated for the adoption of intelligent manufacturing and increased deployment of AI technologies in data analysis for data-driven decision-making. It also advocated for the enhancement of digital infrastructure and cybersecurity to enhance cross-border communication for trade and prosperity in the region.
In addressing the imperative need for digital literacy, the conference spurred the development and implementation of digital literacy programmes, targeting urban and rural populations alike. Additionally, it called for the fostering of digital entrepreneurship and the temporary suspension of taxes on new digital enterprises.
On the educational front, the forum urged universities and development partners to award PhD scholarships to young graduates in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. The objective is to mitigate the age disparity among PhD candidates in the region and cultivate young talent in scientific research and innovation.
The conference further spotlighted the digitalisation of government services via e-Government initiatives and the development of advanced Digital Financial Services to improve access to funds and wealth management in East Africa. It also called for the establishment of innovation, reward, and incentive schemes to imbue a culture of innovation across the region.
In conclusion, the 3rd STI Conference made considerable strides in underscoring the significance of genetic material preservation, dispelling GMO misconceptions, promoting digital entrepreneurship, and fostering a culture of innovation and scientific research in East Africa. These efforts are pivotal for the region to realise its full potential and emerge as a key player in the global economy.
For further information, please contact:
Simon Peter Owaka
Senior Public Relations Officer
Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Department
EAC Secretariat Arusha, Tanzania
Tel: +255 768 552087
Email:
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