Review report on progress in the implementation of sustainable development commitments related to biotechnology in Africa

Abstract

The report presents a comprehensive account of Africa-related regional and subregional initiatives on biotechnology. It also addresses constraints and challenges, lessons learned, emerging trends and opportunities for harnessing biotechnology to achieve sustainable development. Given the cross-cutting and universal nature of biotechnology applications, the report has identified important inter-linkages between biotechnology and other relevant sectors for the region, notably biodiversity, forests, tourism and mountains. Biotechnology helps conserve and restore biodiversity, forests, mountains and tourist attractions. Conversely, these ecosystems are an important source of biological resources for biotechnology research and development.