TCDA directs stakeholders to use only certified Tree Crop seedlings

The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA) has issued a new directive requiring all development partners, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, individuals, and other actors involved in the distribution of tree crop planting materials to source seedlings only from certified and approved suppliers.

The Authority stated in a statement that the directive is aimed at strengthening quality control and ensuring the sustainable development of Ghana’s tree crops sector. The directive covers key economic crops under TCDA’s mandate, including cashew, coconut, oil palm, mango, rubber, and shea.

According to the Authority, the move is backed by the Tree Crops Development Authority Act, 2019 (Act 1010), as well as Regulation 46 of the Tree Crops Regulations, 2023 (L.I. 2471), which empowers TCDA to verify the source and quality of planting materials distributed across the country.

Under the new guidelines, all organizations and individuals involved in the supply and distribution of tree crop seedlings must procure planting materials only from stocks approved by TCDA. They are also required to maintain proper documentation showing the source and approval status of all planting materials and make such records available to the Authority upon request.

The directive further mandates that all seedlings intended for commercial distribution must meet standards prescribed by TCDA and undergo inspection, verification, and certification before they are distributed to farmers and beneficiaries.

The Authority warned that no person or organization should distribute, supply, or circulate uncertified planting materials without prior approval from TCDA. Failure to comply with the directive will attract sanctions under the Tree Crops Regulations, 2023.

TCDA emphasized that the measure is intended to improve quality assurance, traceability, sustainability, and productivity within Ghana’s tree crops industry. The Authority also advised farmers and beneficiaries to verify that any seedlings they receive originate from accredited and certified sources approved by TCDA.

The directive takes immediate effect and forms part of broader efforts by the Authority to protect farmers from substandard planting materials while promoting long-term growth and competitiveness in Ghana’s tree crops sector.