Ethiopia: Biotechnology for development

Abstract

This article was written to provide compelling rationales for initiating biotechnology education, and a research and development programme in one technology institute in Ethiopia. As the author wishes to share these with a wider audience, the article is presented in the following way: it begins with a brief history of the traditional and conventional biotechnologies in Ethiopia; and reviews the national status of modern biotechnology. The potential of modern biotechnology to promote national development through its support of endeavours in agriculture, environmental management and rehabilitation, health care and industry/manufacturing is then discussed. Finally, the article lists and discusses the key topics that have to be taken into account while introducing and developing modern biotechnology in Ethiopia. Until a good national policy is produced, the topics could serve as guidelines for institutions engaged in biotechnology and life science research.