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Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB)

OFAB is an Informative platform that brings together stakeholders in the field of Biotechnology and the public as a whole to enable interactions, sharing and exchange of knowledge, experiences, contacts and exploring new avenues of bringing the benefits of biotechnology to Agricultural sector. And on 9 April, 2009, AATF in partnership with the National Biotechnology Development Agency(NABDA) and Agricultural Research Council (ARCN), launched OFAB-Nigeria Chapter with a mission to enhance knowledge sharing and awareness on agricultural biotechnology that would raise understanding and appreciation of the technology. 

Our services

OFAB: An Overview

The Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology in Africa (OFAB) is a multi-stakeholder platform established to promote informed dialogue on agricultural biotechnology among scientists, policymakers, journalists, farmers, civil society, and the general public.

It plays a critical role in bridging the gap between scientific innovation and public understanding, especially around the controversial and often misunderstood topic of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in African agriculture.

OFAB: Who we are

OFAB was initiated by the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) in partnership with various national and international stakeholders. It is part of AATF’s broader effort to enable smallholder farmers in Africa to access and benefit from innovative agricultural technologies.
The Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) plays a crucial role in shaping Africa’s biotechnology landscape. By facilitating open, inclusive, and informed conversations, OFAB ensures that decisions about agricultural technologies are made transparently, ethically, and scientifically. It is not just a platform—it is a movement for informed progress in African agriculture.

Key Activities of OFAB

  • Organizes public lectures, seminars, and panel discussions featuring scientists and policymakers.government officials in key biotech issues.

  • Trains journalists on biotechnology literacy and science communication
  • Offers media fellowships and reporting grants to encourage responsible reporting on GMOs.
  • Conducts outreach programs and field visits to educate farmers on biotech crop performance.
  • Shares testimonials from biotech crop users to counter misinformation.

Offers workshops and training for regulators, scientists, and CSOs on biosafety and biotechnology regulations.

  • Recognizes outstanding contributions in biotechnology communication and research.
  • Awards journalists, researchers, and policy influencers who promote responsible biotech advocacy.

Impact of OFAB

Improved Public Awareness: OFAB has helped demystify GMOs and promoted science-based discourse across Africa.

Policy Influence: Contributed to the development or review of biosafety laws and regulatory frameworks in member countries.

Farmer Empowerment: Provided smallholder farmers with access to accurate information to help them adopt or reject technologies based on evidence, not fear.

Media Transformation: Strengthened science journalism in Africa by training media professionals to report accurately on biotechnology.

Talk to us

Deputy Director (Head OFAB Unit)

Rose Suniso Maxwell Gidado completed her doctorate degree (PhD) in Industrial Microbiology in 2015. Her research focuses on the development of indigenous ethanol tolerant yeast, for the industrial production of Bioethanol. The research was motivated by the increasing world`s energy & fuel demands which encouraged research for alternative fuel sources such as Bioethanol. It was also aimed at developing indigenous non-saccharomyces ethanol tolerant yeast with prospects for applications in large industrial production of Bioethanol in Nigeria

Dr Rose Gidado
Deputy Director (Head OFAB Unit)

Looking Ahead

 

OFAB aims to expand its reach and deepen its impact by:

Launching new country chapters, Increasing digital engagement, Partnering with youth and women-focused agricultural initiatives, Supporting the safe commercialization of biotech crops developed locally in Africa.

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