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The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) has granted 35 Transit Authorisations to various companies transiting mealie meal which may contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
These 35 Transit Authorisations were granted during the course of last month.
So far in the past one month over 220,000 metric tonnes of mealie meal that may contain GMOs have transited to DRC, says NBA Communications Officer, Sandra Lombe, in statement issued on Thursday in Lusaka.
Lombe said the Authority had designated Kazungula and Chirundu as entry points for the GMO mealie meal transiting from South Africa, while Kasumbalesa and Mwami were the exit ports to Democratic Republic of Congo and Malawi respectively.
“The officers at the ports of entry are alert and providing regular updates on the transiting goods.
“The exit points are also monitoring to ensure that the trucks have the same quantities they declared at the entry point. We are committed to regulating activities related to GMOs,” she said.
Read more: National Biosafety Authority denies reports of confiscating mealie meals laced with GMOs
Meanwhuile, Lombe said two firms had been granted five-year permits to import products which may contain GMOs by the NBA.
The two firms are Nelt Zambia Limited and Zambian Brands Limited.
Lombe said Nelt Zambia Limited would bring in Pedigree dog food and Whiskas cat food while Zambian Brands Limited would import Willards Monster Munch, Willards Diddle Daddle snacks and Bakers Street Jumpin Jack of three different flavors (White Cheddar, Butter and Cheese & Green Onion).
“The NBA Board approved the permits during a Board meeting held on 12th May, 2023 in Chilanga.
“The Scientific Advisory Committee recommended to the Board the issuance of permits after risk assessments were conducted and products found to be safe for humans, animals and the environment. The permits are valid for five years,” she said.
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