The UN Food and Agriculture Organization appears to be cautious about the potential of GM technology to develop drought-resistant maize for Africa. It’s also cautious about the potential of organic farming.
USAID program charged with seed theft in India
A genetically-modified food project funded by the US Agency for International Development faces legal action for bio-piracy offences. The National Biodiversity Authority of India has published its decision to allow the case to proceed.
Banks protected by ban on speculators
Four European countries are protecting their banks from market speculators by slapping a ban on their trading methods. No such luck for poor countries affected by food prices running out of control.
Clutching at straws of climate data
Rebuilding colonial-era networks of meteorological stations is a consistent refrain of climate adaptation plans in Africa.
HIPC has a new address
Remember those years when rich countries imposed tough conditions on Africa for debt relief? Now the tables are turning.
Anxious Africa awaits fallout from US downgrade
Recent years of encouraging economic performance in sub-Saharan Africa could unravel in the aftermath of the US credit rating downgrade. A flagging world economy might drag down commodity prices, dismantling the foundation of Africa’s recovery.
Friend or foe of Rwanda?
The UK government lavishes funds on Rwanda but others feel rather differently about the repressive reputation of the Paul Kagame government.
African silence speaks volumes
African ministers, long tormented by accusations of dysfunctional government, are so far resisting the temptation to bounce this message with United States inserted as the subject.
Madagascar at mercy of neo-colonial fishing plunder
A UN human rights mission to Madagascar has alleged that European and Asian exploitation of the island’s fishing grounds is comparable to the pillage of African resources by 19th century imperialists.
Malawi spells trouble for aid promises
Malawi is a scare story for Africa because President Mutharika was until very recently the donors’ pet; now he is perceived as a tyrant.