Ghana launches first genetically modified cowpea

GHANA – On July 25th 2024, Ghana marked a significant milestone in its agricultural history with the commercial release of its first genetically modified crop, the Bt cowpea.

This event took place in Tamale, a city in northern Ghana, and was celebrated with representatives from key institutions like the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) in attendance.

The approval for the Bt cowpea came in June 2022 from the National Biosafety Authority (NBA), making Ghana the second West African country to adopt this transgenic variety after Nigeria.

Developed by the Savannah Agricultural Research Institute (SARI) using genes provided by Monsanto (Bayer), this new cowpea variety is designed to resist the Maruca pod borer, a significant pest affecting traditional crops.

Paul Bosu, Director General of the CSIR, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “This is an exceptional day for Ghana’s agricultural sector and for our progress towards food security.”

The genetically modified cowpea is expected to significantly increase yields, potentially producing up to 2 tonnes per hectare—four times higher than conventional varieties.

Despite the promising advancements, the introduction of GM cowpea has stirred debate. The Ghana Farmers’ Association (PFAG) has voiced concerns about the impact of genetically modified crops on agricultural diversity.

They argue that the move could lead to a loss of traditional farming practices and place too much control in the hands of multinational corporations. “We fear that the introduction of these crops might erode our indigenous agricultural systems,” said a spokesperson from the association.

Cowpea, or Vigna unguiculata, plays a crucial role in Ghana’s agriculture, especially in the northern regions.

It is a staple food for many local households and contributes to sustainable farming by fixing nitrogen in the soil. In 2022, Ghana produced over 365,000 tons of cowpea, with smallholder farmers cultivating around 237,000 metric tons.

The challenges of pest infestations have long plagued cowpea production, with the Maruca pod borer being a primary concern.

While insecticides have been used to control these pests, they pose risks to human health and the environment. The introduction of Bt cowpea is seen as a potential solution to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides.

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