Collaborate to strengthen seed sector to ensure food security — Stakeholders advised

The Agricultural Counsellor for Ghana and Nigeria at the Netherlands Embassy, Inge Tenniglo, has called for strong collaboration between the government, private sector, and international partners to build a resilient seed sector in Ghana.

This, she emphasised, was crucial in boosting agricultural productivity while ensuring food and nutrition security, and reducing the country’s dependence on imports.

She was speaking to Daily Graphic on the sidelines of an exclusive event to highlight the intersection of food security, agrobiodiversity, and sustainable agricultural practices in Ghana.

Her call comes at a time when the global food system is under pressure due to factors such as climate change, Russia-Ukraine war and economic disruptions, making the need for a resilient seed sector more urgent than ever.

Development 

Over the years, Ghana has introduced some policies aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and promoting sustainable practices to reduce food insecurity. However, significant challenges remain.

Climate change and environmental degradation are putting pressure on agricultural systems, and the country’s reliance on $2.6 billion worth of agricultural imports in 2022 further hinders efforts toward self-sufficiency. 

This dependence is expected to grow as local agricultural production struggles to meet rising demand. To secure its future, experts say Ghana must increase crop yields, enhance agricultural productivity, and conserve agrobiodiversity. 

She explained that a strong seed sector serves as the foundation for a sustainable food system, capable of withstanding external shocks such as climate change, rising food demand, and supply chain disruptions.

“Without reliable access to quality seeds, farmers will struggle to meet the increasing demands of food production, putting national food security at risk,” Ms Tenniglo said.

Event 

The luncheon event organised by the Embassy of the Netherlands in Ghana in partnership with the Ghana Food Movement and supported by the International Treaty of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA), was on the theme: “Flavors of Genetic Diversity: A Culinary Journey.”

It brought together experts, policymakers, and other key stakeholders to explore how to strengthen Ghana’s seed systems, enhance genetic resources, and support sustainable food production. 

Innovation 

Ms Tenniglo further underscored the role of international partnerships in promoting innovation and knowledge transfer, citing the Netherlands' expertise in seed technology as a valuable resource for Ghana’s agricultural transformation.

She encouraged the private sector to actively participate in the seed value chain by investing in research, seed certification, and distribution networks.

The Netherlands Ambassador, Jeroen Verheul, highlighted challenges such as climate change, unsustainable food production, and the erosion of biodiversity, calling for collective action to build resilient food systems.

“The strength in our food systems lies in our shared connections. By working together, we can build a more resilient and sustainable future,” he said.