The future is only the beginning

Abstract

Recent advancements in genome editing have captured the attention of scientists and policymakers, who contend that the technology has a large role to play in advancing food and climate security on the African continent. However, the modest results of earlier generations of biotechnology—such as genetically modified (GM) crops—raise questions about the sustainability of new technological interventions. This special feature examines lessons learned from previous generations of GM crops and other agricultural technologies, using them to analyze the portfolio of gene edited crops being developed for African farmers today. In this article, we introduce the 6 papers that make up the special feature by way of examining future-oriented discourses around the advancement of genome editing. Drawing on Science and Technology Studies, political ecology, and critical development studies, this introduction highlights the crucial factors that shape technology development, agricultural practice, and the politics of knowing and emphasizes the need to look toward multiple, diverse futures.