President Emmerson Mnangagwa has urged Zimbabwean scientists and innovators to use their scientific knowledge and innovation for furthering research and development in traditional medicines in the biotechnology industry.
Speaking during the simultaneous launch of the cough medicine (cofsol) as well as the National Biotechnology Authority’s Strategic Plan for 2021-2025, the President said the research and development of new technologies should result in more traditional medicines, food and beverages on the market.
“Given the health-promoting properties of indigenous plants, I challenge the National Biotechnology Authority, other institutions of higher learning and the private sector, complemented by our skilled human capital, to use their scientific knowledge and innovation for furthering research and development in traditional medicines. The manufacturing of more products using our locally available natural endowments should be prioritized.
“Given the health-promoting properties of indigenous plants, I challenge the National Biotechnology Authority, other institutions of higher learning and the private sector, complemented by our skilled human capital, to use their scientific knowledge and innovation for furthering research and development in traditional medicines. The manufacturing of more products using our locally available natural endowments should be prioritized,” said President Mnangagwa.
The President said the sector will vigorously pursue and invest in the manufacturing of the country’s drugs and medicines, concerted efforts will be made to dedicate personnel and experts to achieve the objective.
“The potential of Zumbani and other traditional plants, whose value addition potential is under-exploited, remains essential, as you have demonstrated today, the sector must explore research and development around many more plants and natural products occurring within our country.
“I also expect you to move up the value chain and graduate towards the development of intermediate value-added products, including extracts for the food, beverages and phyto-pharmaceutical market,” Mnangagwa said.
Mnangagwa added that the sector will, therefore, continue to receive support from Government as a key pillar that should boost national development within the socio-economic spectrum.
“My Government recognizes the role of bio-technology in transforming the lives and livelihoods of our people through the production of food, medicinal drugs and industrial products, among others,” said the President.
The cough syrup, Cofsol, is a local product composed of Zumbani (Lippia-Javanica), which has been used by many Zimbabweans in the fight against colds, flu and of-late, Covid-19, the launch also coincided with the 15th anniversary of the Authority.