The Namibia Agronomic Board and National Commission on Research, Science and Technology have signed a new agreement to facilitate agricultural research, innovation, value-addition and tests of crops that emanate from Genetically Modified Organisms.

The NAB will also draft regulations on the exportation, and importation of local production to scruitinise the safety of such products in and beyond Namibia.

Speaking at the signing ceremony  NAB Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Fidelis Mwazi said the collaboration will further enhance bio-safety regulations and food safety, through conducting inspections to assess compliance within the regulatory framework.

In addition, Mwazi says that the agreement also makes provision for capacity building in agricultural research and biotechnology and the sharing of laboratory facilities.

On her part Acting Chief Executive-officer of the NCRST, Albertina Ngurare says research, science and technology are crucial pillars for both institutions to raise standards in a quest for socio-economic development.

Ngurare also cautioned that inspections at all entry points into Namibia remain a priority to guard against the import of illegal horticultural and agronomic goods.

The two entities will also set up a joint technical committee to develop an action plan.