The rich biodiversity of Ghana’s agricultural heritage is under threat, as stakeholders warn of the potential extinction of indigenous seed varieties.
In a recent statement, a coalition of civil society organizations, academic institutions, and other stakeholders highlighted the growing concerns over the declining presence of native seeds. The University of Energy and Natural Resources, ActionAid Ghana, and the Centre for Indigenous Knowledge and Organisational Development are among the key voices raising the alarm.
The primary drivers of this looming crisis, according to the stakeholders, are shifting food preferences and the widespread adoption of hybrid seeds and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). The allure of these alternatives, often touted for their higher yields and resistance to pests, has led to a decrease in the cultivation and preservation of traditional seed varieties. This trend is further exacerbated by the absence of comprehensive government policies aimed at safeguarding these vital genetic resources.
In their media statement, the stakeholders expressed concern that the promotion of GMOs and other patented technologies imposes significant legal and economic barriers on smallholder farmers. These barriers limit farmers’ rights to save and exchange seeds, practices that have been fundamental to the preservation of diverse seed varieties in Ghana.
The recent approval of 14 GMO products for commercialization by the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) in Ghana was cited as a development that could further threaten the survival of indigenous seeds.
Developing Policies and Programs
The stakeholders underscored the importance of developing policies and programs specifically designed to protect and promote indigenous seeds. They called on the government, particularly the Ministry for Food and Agriculture, to urgently establish a framework that not only safeguards these seeds from extinction but also promotes their multiplication and use. Such policies should prioritize neglected local and indigenous crop varieties, which are often more adaptable to local environmental conditions and possess high nutritional value.
The coalition advocated for a sustainable agricultural system that supports the production of indigenous seeds. They proposed enhancements to the “Planting for Food and Jobs” initiative, suggesting that its second phase include incentives for the cultivation of native seed varieties. Increased investment in agroecology, which emphasizes environmentally sustainable farming practices, was also recommended as a means to bolster the resilience of local food systems.
To safeguard the nation’s agricultural biodiversity, the stakeholders urged civil society organizations (CSOs) and like-minded groups to intensify their advocacy against the adoption of the 14 newly approved GMO products and any future approvals. They emphasized the need for a collective effort to resist the erosion of indigenous seed varieties, which are integral to Ghana’s food sovereignty and cultural heritage.
Particularly, the stakeholders highlighted the crucial role of smallholder women farmers in maintaining and improving indigenous seeds. These farmers have traditionally been the custodians of seed diversity, and their knowledge and practices are invaluable for the preservation of local varieties. Therefore, government policies should prioritize providing technical and financial support to these farmers, enabling them to continue their vital work in seed identification, protection, and preservation.
Furthermore, there is a call for broader public education and awareness campaigns to encourage the use and patronage of local seeds and foods. By fostering a greater appreciation for indigenous seeds and the traditional knowledge associated with them, these campaigns can help protect Ghana’s agricultural heritage and ensure food security for future generations.
Stakeholders are urging immediate action to protect these valuable genetic resources, advocating for policies and programs that prioritize the preservation and promotion of native seed varieties. As the debate around GMOs and hybrid seeds continues, the focus must remain on sustaining the agricultural diversity that has long been a cornerstone of Ghana’s farming traditions.
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