ABS Capacity Development Initiative for Africa Training

The ABS Capacity Development Initiative for Africa in collaboration with the University of Cape Town's Environmental Evaluation Unit ran a short course during January 2010 on "Access and Benefit Sharing from Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge". The course was the first of its kind, and was convened in Cape Town, South Africa. It brought together delegates working in areas related to ABS from thirteen African nations to learn about ABS, and to discuss current challenges and ways forward for countries seeking either to implement ABS legislation, or those hoping to maximise legislation currently in place. Two representatives from Natural Justice attended the course, while Kabir Bavikatte of Natural Justice presented a short course on customary law, including biocultural protocols. Those present at the course and the conveners themselves expressed enthusiasm with the way in which the teaching and workshopping was received.