Stop importation of GMO products, ZACA appeals to govt

The Zambia Consumer Association (ZACA) has appealed to government through the National Biosafety authority to rescind its decision to allow some distributors to import products that contain Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).

Earlier this month, the National Biosafety authority granted Cold Chain, Horizon and Innscor new permits to import products that may contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). the three applicants were among 12 retailers, wholesalers and distributors who had applied for new and renewal permits.

But ZACA Executive Secretary, Juba Sakala says there is no justification to waste the country’s hard-earned foreign exchange to import life-threatening genetically modified foods.

Mr. Sakala says the decision by National Biosafety Authority (NBA) to allow imports of gm foods on the Zambian market is a threat to the country’s food sovereignty.

He has accused the NBA of prioritizing the profits of global food corporations at the expense of the health of consumers.

Mr. Sakala has told QFM that the National Biosafety Authority should not wage a campaign of misinformation about GMOs.

He says GMOs have been known to cause immune system disorders, accelerate aging and compromise fertility as well as cause kidney, liver and other organ damage.