Biotechnology is a technological platform that has been a catalyst for development in the industrial world and more recently in countries with emerging economies. It has determined rapid progress in areas such as agriculture, medicine, marine biology, energy, processing industry, biomaterials production and environment, where achievements with this technology are particularly remarkable.

One of the objectives of the present seminar is to show the importance of the legal regulation, the protection and the conservation of the African biodiversity to be used as a tool for the development of Biotechnology as an instrument for regional progress.

In Africa, biotechnology has the potential to bring short term as well as long-term solutions to constraints that affect development in the key sectors of the economy.

It is also the technical foundation of a sustainable Management of natural resources that will affect in a very positive way in the conservation policies and in the development of the population depending on them. Such solutions can translate as:

 

b) Development and application of drugs, pharmaceutical substances, vaccines and nutraceutical products from the vast biodiversity of the region, to treat diseases in human beings and animals, and for improving quality of life.

c) Creation of added value products from biological resources with potential to increase attractiveness and provide a competitive edge in the market.

d) Development of industries based on bio-resources with potential to generate income, businesses and wealth.

e) Assessment and management of marine and terrestrial resources and ecosystems to enable better planning of use and protection of biodiversity.

The Seminar will include scientific and technical discussions and experience sharing on key issues relevant for the implementation of biotechnology as a development tool for developing countries. This will lead to opportunities to promote networks, to identify collaborative partnerships around common areas of interest and to take advantage of the potential of the terrestrial and marine biological resources in benefit of the livelihood of the population. On the other hand, the interaction promoted by the event will impact on actions targeting sustainable management and preservation of biological resources, preservation of ecosystems and biodiversity.

Mozambique, the host country, is in the process of launching its National Biotechnology Programme. In this regard the event will contribute to streamline the programme implementation.