By Wisdom JONNY-NUEKPE
The National Seed Trade Association of Ghana (NaSTAG) has raised concerns over the precarious state of the country’s seed industry, urging stakeholders to implement urgent policies to revitalise the sector and unlock its potential.
NaSTAG has revealed that the domestic seed industry, despite having a potential market value of over US$500million, is underperforming significantly with a large portion of the country’s seed needs being met through imports.
NaSTAG president Dr. Amos Azinu disclosed to B&FT that while the global seed market is worth over US$70billion Africa accounts for just US$1.9billion, with Ghana playing a minimal role in the global industry.
He stated that this does not bode well for the local industry, despite its significant potential and favourable climate for growth.
Call on MoFA
The association, in a letter to sector minister designate Mr. Eric Opoku, asked that the local seed industry be given priority as part of the new government’s key policies.
NaSTAG has recommended the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to establish three seed economic enclaves in the country’s southern, middle and northern regions.
These enclaves, the association argued, will streamline seed development, production, processing, storage and distribution.
According to NaSTAG, the enclaves will provide platforms for enhanced research and development, increased breeding programme funding as well as developing climate-resilient, nutritionally enhanced and locally adapted seed varieties.
“The implementation also requires forming a national seed sector development taskforce to help eradicate political merchants and opportunists who have no investment in the seed value chain. This initiative will reduce seed import dependence, improve food security and increase farmers’ income,” the letter recommended.
Other challenges
Ghana’s private seed sector remains underdeveloped, with limited investment, lack of incentives and regulatory hurdles hindering growth.
Only a few companies, according to the Association, engage in seed production and distribution, resulting in limited competition and innovation within the sector.
Poor management practices have plagued many seed enterprises; and challenges such as inefficient production planning, inadequate quality control and weak marketing strategies are widespread.
Limited access to credit, high interest rates and a lack of tailored financial products all hinder growth and innovation.
According to NaSTAG, inefficiencies in the seed sector have led to collaboration between seed merchants and government officials, giving rise to what is known as ‘Tonato’.
Indeed, public institutions responsible for seed regulation, research and distribution, the Association said, lack resources and efficiency.
