By Edward Dankwah, GNA
Accra, April 30, GNA – Mr. Kwame Dei Asamoah-Okyere, Chief Executive Officer of the National Biosafety Authority (NBA), has assured Ghanaians that the Pod-Borer Resistant (PBR) cowpea developed through modern biotechnology is safe for farmers, consumers, and the environment.
He said this followed rigorous scientific assessment and regulatory approval processes, since biosafety regulation existed to ensure that products developed through biotechnology do not pose harm to the public or the environment.
The CEO of NBA was speaking during an interview with the media on the introduction of the PBR Cowpea in Accra.
Mr Asamoah-Okyere explained that the PBR cowpea underwent strict monitoring from development through confined field trials and multi-locational testing before approval was granted.
He noted that the crop was not based on hybrid technology, allowing farmers to save and replant seeds, while ownership of the variety remained with CSIR–Savanna Agricultural Research Institute, ensuring local control over production and distribution.
He said Ghana’s biosafety framework was among the strongest in Africa, aligned with international standards including the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, with every product subjected to technical review by multidisciplinary experts before final approval.
The CEO stressed that no biotechnology product was approved unless it was proven to be as safe as conventional alternatives, adding that the Authority’s primary responsibility was to safeguard public health and the environment.
Mr Asamoah-Okyere urged the public to trust the country’s scientific and regulatory systems, emphasising that modern biotechnology remained an important tool for improving agricultural productivity and strengthening food security.
Professor Samuel Amiteye, Research Scientist, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) and the School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences (SNAS), University of Ghana, highlighted the economic and environmental benefits of the PBR cowpea.
He described it as a significant improvement over conventional variety, stating that the genetically modified crop delivered higher yields with fewer pesticide applications.
Prof. Amiteye explained that field data showed that the PBR cowpea could produce nearly double the yield compared to conventional varieties, requiring only about two pesticide sprays as against six or more for traditional crops.
He noted that the reduction in pesticide use lowered production costs for farmers while also minimising chemical residues, contributing to a cleaner environment and improved public health.
The Research Scientist said the crop was developed by CSIR–Savanna Agricultural Research Institute in collaboration with international partners, with the institute holding ownership rights and leading efforts to promote its adoption.
Prof. Amiteye said although farmers could save and replant seeds, they were encouraged to periodically purchase certified seeds to maintain quality and ensure optimal yields.
He added that while the PBR cowpea was not a hybrid crop, seed quality may decline over successive planting cycles, making proper seed management and extension support essential for sustained productivity.
He expressed confidence that the adoption of the improved variety would enhance food security, reduce farming costs and support sustainable agricultural practices in Ghana.
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei