Assistance to build capacity for the implementation of the National Biotechnology and Biosafety Policy and the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety

Government of Norway contributes US$  480 000 (NOK 3 Mill.)
Government of Zambia contributes US$   72 340

Component 1 is focusing on public awareness and the legislation on biotechnology and biosafety, which is dependent on the Parliament's approval of the Biosafety Bill.  The Bill is a precondition for implementation of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety.

Component 2 deals with capacity building at NISIR as the Biosafety Focal Point.

Purpose, Component 1

The Biosafety bill has been approved by the Parliament and subsequently signed by the President

Purpose, Component 2

NISIR is in a position to perform its function as National Biosafety Focal Point in accordance with provisions of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. 

3.4.3 Outputs - Component 1

The three main outputs under this component are:

Output 1: The Bill on Biotechnology and Bio-safety has been developed and submitted to the Ministry of Legal Affairs

Output 2: The general public has been consulted on the regulatory framework;

Output 3: A National Biosafety Authority has been formed and operationalised
3.4.4 Outputs - Component 2

The seven main Outputs under this component are:

Output 1: The NISIR is in a position to carry out its responsibilities as Project Manager;

Output 2: Public knowledge on biotechnology and biosafety has been enhanced;

Output 3: Required facilities and infrastructure have been established;

Output4: Adequate and appropriate human resources in biotechnology and biosafety have been established and are in operation;

Output 5: NISIR has the capacity and facilities to detect GMOs

Output 6: A national Bio-technology and Bio-safety information system (National Biosafety Clearing House) has been developed and is operational)

Output 7: Regional cooperation within the SADC region has been established

Objectives
1. To assist the Government of Zambia, through the Ministry of Science Technology and Vocational Training, to establish a national framework for handling biosafety issues, including a biosafety bill and for raising public awareness.

2. To build capacity and establish a laboratory for detection and analysis of GMOs at the National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research.

see attached document

Other collaborating organizations
The Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management

The Norwegian Biotechnology Advisory Board

The National Veterinary Institute of Norway