African Aquaculture: Genetic Resource and Traditional Knowledge Access and Benefit Sharing Measures

A literature review analysis of engagement with the Nagoya Protocol, with specific application to Africa

“…[46] Such issues with respect to TKS and the Nagoya Protocol may pose problems for (i) how genetic and biological research activities are managed in individual countries; and (ii) how these management frameworks then feed into ABS. [10,19,47] A narrative on the Nagoya Protocol negotiation process highlights the disparate viewpoints taken by different actors, and the precise role and meaning of ABS. [47] This highlights the contested, multifaceted and contextual nature of ABS.…”

“…However, national-scale legislation and policies for ABS often lag behind international agreements such as the Nagoya Protocol. [18,19] This may pose challenges with respect to national compliance with the Nagoya Protocol and other such agreements, even for countries that are parties to them. [20][21][22][23] By contrast, the actions of researchers in the field of genetic and biological resources tend to be more nimble and responsive, and field-based researchers are well placed to test the applicability and usefulness of national and international guidelines, to liaise with key stakeholder communities such as local people, and develop strategies for ABS.…”