The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has called on the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to take a leading role in transforming Ghana’s agricultural sector through innovation, research, and improved seed production.

During an engagement with the leadership of CSIR, the Minister raised critical concerns about the overdependence on imported seeds, emphasising the need for Ghana to stop seed importation and develop high-quality seeds locally.

“Why import seeds when we have the expertise and resources at CSIR to develop superior varieties?” Mr. Opoku questioned.

The Minister was presented with several improved seed varieties developed by CSIR, some of which are already being utilised in other African countries such as The Gambia.

He expressed optimism about leveraging local research institutions to boost Ghana’s seed independence.

Mr. Opoku also disclosed that the Ministry of Food and Agriculture has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government of the Netherlands to fund and construct modern facilities to enhance seed production in Ghana.

Beyond seed development, the Minister highlighted the importance of food processing and value addition in boosting farmer incomes and ensuring food security.

He tasked CSIR to develop structured training programmes and education for community-based commodity farmer cooperatives.

This, he explained, would help in building a reliable farmer database to guide government interventions and support schemes.

He further announced government plans to procure more seeds in the coming year to ensure farmers have access to quality planting materials.

The leadership of CSIR, on their part, assured the Minister of their commitment to supporting the government’s agenda for modernising agriculture.

They also advocated for stronger private sector participation in the seed production value chain, stressing the importance of sustained investments to meet the growing demand for improved seeds.