Procurement No: 76/AUDA/DKMPE/CoE/QCBS/2023
- INTRODUCTION
The AUDA-NEPAD is placing science-driven innovations at the core of its programming and interventions across Africa supported by solution-focused research and development. The Centre of Excellence in Science, Technology and Innovation is leading an initiative to harness the potential of genome editing as a rapidly developing suite of biotechnology tools. The initiative aims to facilitate the increased uptake of genome editing by AU Member States through effective science communication and advocacy. This is with the aim to promote viable, competitive, and sustainable agricultural production and the transformation of agro-industries to support the realization of Agenda 2063.
There is increasing evidence that technology, including emerging biotechnologies like genome editing, will be a key factor in determining the pace and characteristics of advances in Africa’s socio-economic development. However, challenges and unexploited opportunities still hinder access to and the adoption of such technologies at scale. Addressing these critical factors requires a clear understanding of the status of technical, institutional, infrastructure and financial resources that are currently available in countries. This will be used as evidence to inform decisions on future interventions and investments.
- THE MAIN OBJECTIVES OF THE CONSULTING SERVICE
The objective of the landscape exercise is to obtain an in-depth assessment and analysis of existing policies, infrastructural, institutional, and technical capabilities to encompass product development and commercialization in a select number of African countries. Overall, the assignment aims to:
- Provide an evidence-based description and analysis of the status of modern biotechnology and genome editing in a cross-section of countries covering the five AU regions with the aim to highlight key trends, intervening factors and areas for attention, as well as, fundamental aspects such as science/technical, political, geo-political, social, human, culture and traditions, etc. that support or hinder advances in the application of genome editing in agriculture and food systems in Africa.
- Identify the emerging needs that genome editing can readily address, especially those which require rapid responses at scale. These needs will focus on food systems i.e., agricultural productivity, reduction of post-harvest losses, climate adaptation, food and nutrition security, diversified and healthy diets.
- Identify staple and indigenous crops based on African regional contexts that can improve the livelihoods of people through food security, better nutrition, climate resilience, and sustainable productivity.