“Evidence-Based Agriculture Policies Key to National Development” – Central Regional Minister

“Evidence-Based Agriculture Policies Key to National Development” – Central Regional Minister

The Central Regional Minister, Mr. Eduamoah Ekow Panyin Okyere, has underscored the urgent need for evidence-based agricultural policies, stating that Ghana can no longer rely on non-research-driven interventions that have consistently underperformed.

He made these remarks at the launch of the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the School of Agriculture at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), where he called for stronger investment in universities and research institutions to generate innovative, data-backed solutions for the country’s agricultural challenges.

The launch, themed “Sustaining Ghana’s Agriculture: 50 Years and Beyond,” brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, academics, students, security agencies, farmers, and alumni.

Delivering the keynote address, former Pro Vice-Chancellor of UCC, Prof. John Nelson Buah, highlighted systemic challenges impeding the sector, including climate change, insecure land tenure, food insecurity, and post-harvest losses. While acknowledging various governmental interventions over the years, he emphasized that the lack of sustainability and continuity has weakened impact.

Prof. Buah called for the creation of a dedicated national fund to support agricultural research and the formulation of a non-partisan, binding national agricultural policy that remains consistent across political transitions.

In his remarks, Mr. Okyere lauded UCC for its recent acquisition of 419 acres for commercial farming, noting the potential of such initiatives to modernize agriculture and attract youth participation. He pledged the Central Regional Coordinating Council’s commitment to collaborating with UCC’s School of Agriculture to advance agricultural innovation and education in the region.

Prof. Denis Worlanyo Aheto, UCC’s Pro Vice-Chancellor, commended the School’s legacy in agricultural research and extension. He noted the School’s leadership in developing improved crop varieties—such as cassava, cowpea, and soybean—and its significant contribution to human resource development through the Sasakawa Fund for Extension Education, which has trained over 80% of Ghana’s agricultural extension officers.

Prof. Moses Jojo Eghan, Provost of the College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, praised the School’s enduring impact on national agricultural advancement, expressing confidence in its continued excellence.

The Dean of the School of Agriculture, Prof. Henry De-Graft Acquah, reflected on the School’s five-decade journey in shaping agricultural professionals and policy. He outlined strategic priorities for the future, including curriculum modernization, expansion of research initiatives, and deepening of partnerships to foster sustainable agricultural transformation.

The launch ceremony also featured goodwill messages from partners including RUFORUM, alumni, and the Centre of Awareness Research and Manufacturing Company Limited, along with a special recognition of retired staff whose contributions have sustained the School’s mission over the decades.