Sudan debates GM cotton cultivation

Sudanese Cotton The Sudanese minister of agriculture Abdul Halim Ismail al-Mutafi‘s declaration concerning the planting of genetically modified (GM) cotton in a number of areas in the country has stirred debate over its acceptance.
He defended the move saying it was based on the views of scientists and experts, while opponents say it will have undesirable consequences. The head of the cotton council Mohammed Osman said the agriculture minister's decision had not yet been approved by the concerned authorities
Al-Ayam, one of Sudan's oldest newspapers, said:  “The argument about the cultivation of GM cotton must concern us for the conflicting information and attitudes towards it, which should be resolveds in a scientific way to dispel doubts. It is not a political issue, so scientists, not politicians, should make the final decision. We oppose the cultivation of this crop, unless this crop has international certification."
The newspaper continued: "It is disturbing that the ministry is moving towards the cultivation of a large area with ??these crops before they are approved by the Biosafety Council, which was formed few days ago according  to a law stating it should approve the item first, which has not happened so far.”
The head of the cotton council said yesterday that the cultivation of GM cotton without basis and approval is considered a crime against the nation and farmers.
He said that the announced items for planting this season were not submitted to the Biosafety Council, therefore they were not approved. If an agricultural product is planted without approval, it is a clear violation of the biosafety law which prevents the entry of genetically modified items, individually or collectively, without approval on scientific grounds by the council.
 The newspaper added: "It is important for the scientific studies to prove that GM crops have no side effects or pose danger to human health, animals or the environment. This danger is determined by scientists, not farmers or politicians or economists. Proved scientific opinion must be established which is not controversial."
 The former director of the agricultural island project, Dr Ahmed Adam described the minister of agriculture as "without sufficient expertise to deal with the country's agricultural needs".