A GNA Article by Solomon Gumah
Nyankpala (N/R), June 02, GNA - According to the World Bank's comprehensive study on climate change impacts on Ghana's agriculture industry, it has been predicted that climate-related disruptions could drive an extra one million Ghanaians below the poverty line by 2050. The report also indicates that impoverished families might face earnings decreases as high as 40%.
The study suggests that the agricultural industry, which provides employment for a substantial part of the populace, is highly susceptible because of its heavy dependence on rainfall for cultivation.
To reverse this trend, the nation's scientific community would need to take crucial steps via their work in science and research to guarantee an efficient and lasting turnaround.
Role of CSIR-SARI (Background)
The CSIR-SARI Technology Park is situated in Nyankpala within the Tolon District of Ghana’s Northern Region. This park represents an innovative effort aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture via scientific advancements, technological applications, and creative solutions.
Launched in 2024 alongside the West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (CORAF) and the Innovation Research Extension and Advisory Coordination Hub Consortium, this initiative falls under the umbrella of the West Africa Food System Resilience Program. The Technology Park functions as both an exhibition center and a learning facility.
This exhibit highlights cutting-edge farming techniques such as genetic and agronomic advancements created by CSIR-SARI aimed at enhancing agricultural output in Ghana.
In the 2024 growing season, a total of 74 climate-resilient technologies that also consider gender and nutritional aspects were introduced across 10 distinct crop types for stakeholders and participants within the agriculture sector.
Several enhanced crop varieties were highlighted, including drought-resistant and high-oleic peanut types like SARINUT 7 & 8, fall armyworm-tolerant maize hybrids (CSIR-SARIMAZ 4, & 5 and CSIR-Wobil Moya), provitamin A-enriched maize hybrids (CSIR-Abebe), and Songotra-T, a cowpea variety with resistance to pod borers developed using advanced biotechnological methods, amongst other innovations.
Other technologies encompass mechanical planting and harvesting equipment, techniques for multiplying seeds and producing initial generations of seeds, methods to combat Striga weeds, tools for post-harvest processing, drip irrigation setups, comprehensive approaches to managing soil nutrients, as well as the System of Rice Intensification with a focus on conservation agriculture.
The CSIR-SARI SRI methodology revolves around four main tenets: adding compost to enhance soil fertility, transplanting immature seedlings at approximately 14-15 days old, arranging plants in rows for easier application of mechanized weeding tools, and implementing intermittent flooding followed by draining to save water and manage consumption effectively.
Dr. Charles Nelimor, who manages the CSIR-SARI Technology Park, explained to GNA that the main aim of this program is to showcase enhanced crop types and eco-friendly agricultural techniques. Additionally, it seeks to connect scientific findings with their real-world use in farming.
He mentioned that the park aims to encourage the use of biotechnology to enhance food security and resilience. It also intends to develop a more efficient agricultural system that can be replicated in other areas, serving as an example.
Dr. Nelimor discussed the park's influence, noting that it has considerably impacted Ghana’s seed value chain by boosting the demand for early-generation seeds via hands-on demonstrations.
He mentioned that this approach has motivated farmers to embrace enhanced seed varieties characterized by greater output and resilience against pests, meanwhile promoting partnerships with seed manufacturers and agribusinesses to bolster the farming industry.
Even though it has made considerable advancements, Dr. Nelimor recognized that the park still encounters obstacles, notably the necessity for stable financing to facilitate the expansion of agricultural developments.
Conclusion and Way Forward.
Dr. Francis Kusi, who leads CSIR-SARI, mentioned that the park intends to broaden collaborations, amplify proven technologies, and keep acting as a driving force for agricultural change not only in Ghana but also throughout West Africa.
He further noted that the park serves as an example of how combining biotechnology with sustainable methods can transform agriculture and enhance economic conditions locally.
Dr. Kusi urged farmers, seed producers, and other participants in the agricultural sector to seize this opportunity to support Ghana’s dedication to sustainable agriculture and ensure food security for the nation.
It is suggested that the government provide resources through funding and increased support for training more researchers to enhance agricultural research and technological advancements. As an illustration, all superior seed varieties developed by SARI PARK should undergo large-scale production and distribution at accessible prices nationwide. This would allow farmers to cultivate these high-yield crops, thereby strengthening national food security amidst growing concerns over climate change globally.
The government is encouraged to enact legislation promoting cooperation with neighboring West African nations to establish large-scale research facilities focused on technological advancements and agricultural development. These labs should be dedicated to ensuring the contemporary and secure cultivation of food crops, medicinal plants, and cutting-edge agritech innovations within the nation.
GNA
Edited by Eric K. Amoh / George-Ramsey Benamba
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