The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research-Savanna Agricultural Research Institute has released the pod borer-resistant (PBR) cowpea, the first genetically modified crop to be developed in the country, for commercial cultivation.
The Institute disclosed that the cowpea variety is resistant to diseases (pod borer pest), matures early and is highly nutritious and gives higher yields.
According to the institute, with the support of partners such as the United States Agency for International Development, and the African Agriculture Technology Trust Foundation (AATF), it took CSIR-SARI over a decade of research to get this PBR cowpea variety, as well as secure the necessary regulatory approval for its commercialisation in the country.
Speaking during the launch of the PBR cowpea at Nyankpala in the Northern Region on Thursday, Professor Paul Bosu, Director-General of CSIR, said that the release of the variety was in line with efforts towards food security in the country.
Cowpea is a vital crop for many smallholder farmers in the country, and it is a major source of protein and other nutrients for households, its cultivation supports the livelihoods of many farmers.
However, the productivity of cowpea has been severely hampered by the devastating impact of the pod borer pest; this pest can cause yield losses of up to 80 per cent leading to food insecurity and economic hardship for farmers hence the PBR cowpea.
The report Daily Graphic on Monday quoted Professor Bosu as saying that the release of the variety was a special day for the country, adding CSIR was committed to cutting-edge science to address national challenges.
GIK/APA
Ghana’s Scientific Council releases first GMO crop for commercial cultivation
