Mandate

The Mandate for the Authority is to exercise general supervision and control over the transfer, handling and use of genetically modified organisms with a view to ensuring -

(a) safety of human and animal health;

(b) provision of an adequate level of protection of the environment

The Functions of the Authority are:

i). Consider and determine applications for approval for the development, transfer, handling and use of genetically modified organisms, and related activities in accordance with the provisions of the Biosafety Act;

ii). Co-ordinate, monitor and assess activities relating to the safe development, transfer, handling and use of genetically modified organisms in order to ensure that such activities do not have adverse effect on human health and the environment;

iii). Co-ordinate research and surveys in matters relating to the safe development, transfer, handling and use of genetically modified organisms, and to collect, collate and disseminate information about the findings of such research, investigation or survey;

iv). Identify national requirements for manpower development and capacity building in biosafety;

v). Advise the Government on legislative and other measures relating to the safe development, transfer, handling and use of genetically modified organisms;

vi). Promote awareness and education among the general public in matters relating to biosafety; and

vii). Establish and maintain a biosafety clearing house (BCH) to serve as a means through which information is made available to facilitate exchange of scientific, technical, environmental and legal information on, and experience with, living modified organisms;

viii). Perform any other function which is incidental to the performance of any of the foregoing functions.