CROSS-SECTIONAL VIEW OF GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS (GMOS) IN AFRICA 

Modern technology and its applications continue to touch every aspect of our daily lives. The advent and advancement of biotechnology have brought immeasurable improvements in the agriculture and food science industries, medical faculty, and pharmaceutical industry of the world. The biotech industry has developed several products including GMOs, which have set the pace for transforming various sectors of the global economy and salvaging many countries from the several emerging problems of the 21st century. This paper reviewed some of the evidenced-based importance and potentials of GMOs as highlighted by several researchers and authors. It particularly took a brief critical view of the profile of GMOs in Africa and their potential to transform lives on the continent. This review also discussed some mixed reactions hinged on fear, belief, speculation and other influences surrounding GMOs on the continent. A brief background of the steps taken by some countries across the continent towards the use of GM resources, including several trials of GMOs at different stages. However, based on the critical assessment of the reactions, feelings and low interest towards GMOs in Africa, this article has suggested a critical country-based assessment of institutional efficiency, continuous commitment to research, sectorial collaboration and consolidation of country-specific allied industries, before allowing wholesale introduction and application of GMOs.