The Nigerian government's approval earlier this year of transgenic insect-resistant and drought-tolerant maize varieties, also known as TELA maize, has sparked intense debate among farmers, scientists, and the general public.
In this episode of Africa Science Focus, reporter Jayne Augoye hears out the diverse perspectives on the introduction of TELA maize, a genetically modified (GM) crop, which proponents say will contribute to food and nutrition security.
Samuel Agele, professor and researcher in plant ecophysiology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, emphasised the need for public education and the regulation of genetically modified crops in Nigeria, amid concerns over possible health and environmental impacts.
Ijeoma Akaogu, a plant breeder and geneticist and programme officer at the African Agricultural Technology Foundation - implementing partner of the TELA maize project in Nigeria - says the engineered crops have increased resistance to pests and diseases.
However, farmers Anthony Musa and Olusola Sowemimo have differing views on the benefits of GM crops.
-------------------------------------------------
Africa Science Focus is produced by SciDev.Net and distributed in association with your local radio station.
This piece was produced by SciDev.Net’s Sub-Saharan Africa English desk.
Do you have any comments, questions or feedback about our podcast episodes? Let us know at podcast@scidev.net
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Special Summer Offer: Exclusively on Apple Podcasts, try our Dateline Premium subscription completely free for one month! With Dateline Premium, you get every episode ad-free plus exclusive bonus content.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!