GHANA – Ghana has launched the commercial distribution of genetically modified cowpea (Bt cowpea) in a historic ceremony at the northern city of Tamale on July 25, marking a significant milestone for Ghana’s agricultural sector.
This development follows the approval by the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) in June 2022, making Ghana the second West African country to adopt this variety after Nigeria.
The launch ceremony was attended by representatives from key institutions including the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF).
This event comes in the wake of the validation and approval of the national seed catalog by the National Committee for the Dissemination and Registration of Varieties.
Developed by the Savannah Agricultural Research Institute (SARI) using genes provided by Monsanto (now Bayer), Bt cowpea is engineered to be resistant to the insect pest Maruca vitrata, commonly known as the pod borer.
Researchers indicate that this genetically modified legume can yield up to 2 tonnes per hectare, which is four times the yield of conventional cowpea varieties.
“This is a great day for Ghana’s agricultural sector and the march towards food security,” said Paul Bosu, Director General of CSIR, highlighting the potential impact of Bt cowpea on improving agricultural productivity and food security in the country.
However, this enthusiasm contrasts with concerns from the Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG), which has criticized the approval of new genetically modified varieties, including soy and corn.
In April, the group contested the introduction of 14 genetically modified organism (GMO) products into the market, including six varieties of soybeans and eight varieties of corn, following approval by the National Biosafety Authority (NBA).
The group fears that the introduction of GM crops may threaten varietal diversity and lead to a “loss of the indigenous agricultural system to the benefit of a handful of genetic engineering multinationals.”
Cowpea, the most cultivated legume in Ghana, saw a harvest exceeding 365,000 tonnes in 2022, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The introduction of Bt cowpea is poised to significantly impact this vital crop, promising higher yields and improved resistance to pests.
Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.
