Farmers that raise cowpeas in Ghana’s Northern Region have stated that they are eager to accept and use BT (Biotechnology) Cowpea seeds. They are confident that switching to BT Cowpea seeds will increase their agricultural yields dramatically, contribute to food security, boost their health, and increase their income.
These farmers have noted a variety of difficulties they have encountered when growing the currently available cowpea seeds, which has decreased their interest in the market. They are now anxiously awaiting the National Biosafety Authority’s (NBA) certification of BT Cowpea seeds for commercial growing in the nation.
What are the potential dangers and benefits of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in our food supply, and how can we strike a balance between ensuring food security and addressing health and environmental concerns?
On the BT Cowpea seed varietal trial field in the Tolon District, these farmers spoke about their experiences. They evaluated this field’s performance in light of other fields that had been planted with cowpea seeds that were already in existence.
One farmer, Mr. Adam Fuseini, said that despite considerable expenditure and up to eight chemical spray applications before to harvest, he only managed to collect a pitiful three bags of cowpea per acre. The massive chemical spraying resulted in losses in money and health issues. Mr. Fuseini, along with numerous others, urged the government to swiftly approve BT Cowpea seeds because they are expected to dramatically boost yields and assist meet the country’s food demands.
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s Savanna Agricultural Research Institute (CSIR-SARI) created the genetically altered crop known as the BT Cowpea. The NBA granted permission for its release into the environment last year. Varietal release trials are already taking place in a few regions of the nation, and it is anticipated that NBA clearance for commercial cultivation will come soon.
Farmers stand to gain a lot from the introduction of BT Cowpea seeds. It would result in harvests that are up to 20 times bigger than present yields, cut the number of times fields need to be sprayed in half, and prevent up to 80% of pest damage.
The development and certification of BT Cowpea seeds were required since there is currently a 167,000 metric ton demand for cowpeas in Ghana but only 57,000 metric tones of local production. In order to meet demand, this will help increase local production, which could result in exports and foreign exchange earnings.
Farmers in Golomanchayili, like Mr. Haruna Abdul-Mumin, have voiced enthusiasm for the BT Cowpea, noting that it will be more affordable, produce better results, and eventually reduce losses from pest infestations.
Another farmer, Musah Rashidatu, expressed excitement for the acceptance of BT Cowpea seeds and acknowledged the noteworthy benefits they provide over conventional cowpeas.
When visiting the field with farmers and scientists, Professor Marian Quain, the Deputy Director-General of the CSIR, acknowledged the farmers’ requests for a speedy approval of BT Cowpea seeds. She underlined the necessity to expedite the regulatory procedures while still abiding by the laws and rules of the nation. In order for end users to fully take advantage of the technology developed by researchers, Professor Quain emphasized the significance of making high-quality materials accessible to them.
Additionally, OFAB Ghana held a workshop in Tamale for media professionals to update them on national developments involving genetically modified organisms. The goal of the event was to give journalists a better grasp of these concerns so they can inform the public and dispel myths about BT Cowpea seeds.
Source : GNA
