A lecturer at Koforidua Technical University (KTU), Dr. Yaw Gyau Akyereko, and a delegation from the National Seed Trade Association of Ghana (NaSTAG) have engaged former Vice President and New Patriotic Party presidential candidate, H.E. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, on measures required to strengthen Ghana's seed industry.
The engagement focused on relevant policy, investment and regulatory issues affecting the growth of the seed sector and its contribution to Ghana's food and nutrition security agenda.
Dr. Akyereko and the NaSTAG delegation highlighted the potential of the seed industry to contribute to Ghana's economic transformation, create sustainable employment and reduce the country's dependence on imported agricultural inputs.
They advocated for a private-sector-driven seed industry supported by progressive government policies, adequate infrastructure, appropriate agricultural financing mechanisms and sustained investment in scientific research and innovation.
The delegation also underscored the need for a structured youth participation programme that would equip young people with the technical skills, financial support and business opportunities required to participate meaningfully across the seed value chain.
According to Dr. Akyereko, achieving seed self-sufficiency is essential to increasing agricultural productivity and building a resilient national food system.
"The seed industry has the potential to turn Ghana's economy around if the right investment and regulatory framework are implemented. The industry must be private-sector driven and supported by good policies, adequate infrastructure, structured youth participation, proper agricultural financing and intensive research," he stated.
He described the interaction with Dr. Bawumia as insightful and important to the country's development, particularly as Ghana explores sustainable measures to improve domestic food production and guarantee access to nutritious food.
Dr. Bawumia and the delegation exchanged perspectives on the challenges confronting the industry and the opportunities available to position quality seed production as a strategic pillar of Ghana's agricultural and economic development.
The engagement reaffirmed the importance of collaboration among policymakers, researchers, universities, private seed businesses, farmers and financial institutions in developing a competitive and sustainable seed industry.
Dr. Akyereko encouraged Ghanaians, particularly the youth and business community, to recognise agriculture and the seed value chain as viable areas for investment, innovation and job creation.
"Make food business your business," he urged.
The initiative reflects KTU's commitment to promoting industry engagement, applied research and practical solutions that contribute to national development.