The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) Acting Chief Executive Officer, Lillian Kambafwile, says addressing national challenges, which include the impact of climate change, requires collaboration among regulators, researchers, innovators, industry, communities and policy makers.…

The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) Acting Chief Executive Officer, Lillian Kambafwile, says addressing national challenges, which include the impact of climate change,  requires collaboration among regulators, researchers, innovators, industry, communities and policy makers.

Ms Kambafwile says the linkage can be strengthened between scientific knowledge, innovation and public understanding while supporting Zambia’s development aspirations.

She was speaking during the 2026 Open Day for the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) and cooperating partners held at their offices in Chilanga district.

“This year’s Open Day comes at an important time as the country advances the Grow Zambia Agenda, which seeks to accelerate growth, increase production, create jobs and promote value addition across key sectors of the economy,’’ she said.

In a speech read on her behalf by Acting District Administrative Officer, Tebuho Mufaya, Acting Chilanga District Commissioner, Maureen Chilende said as science and technology continue to advance, biotechnology is increasingly relevant to agriculture, food systems, research, industry, environmental management and national development.

Ms. Chilende noted that it is therefore important that the public has access to accurate and understandable information about technologies and the safeguards governing their use.

 “Persons and institutions whose activities fall within the scope of the biosafety act should comply with the law and work constructively with the National Biosafety Authority which is part of protecting the community, environment and the country’s ability to benefit responsibly from scientific and technological advancement,” She said.

And Assistant Director of Public Health, Mulawo Nkomesha stated that such engagements provide an opportunity for people to understand the benefits, risks, requirements and responsibilities associated with biotechnology.

Mr Nkomesha added that the local authority appreciates the role of NBA in providing technical guidance and ensuring that biosafety requirements are understood and observed.