Gov’t backs regional push for safer food at CCAFRICA meeting

Ghana is working to align its food regulations with international standards. This effort focuses on the Codex Alimentarius and improving food safety.

Mrs. Vowotor emphasized, “It’s not just about trade. It’s about ensuring safe food from farm to fork.”

Key decisions from the recent meeting included new regional standards for traditional foods. These foods include Kethiakh (braised dried fish) and Tiacry (pre-cooked cereal granules). There was also a renewed focus on capacity building through the Codex Trust Fund.

Participants discussed urgent issues like antimicrobial resistance and pesticide residues. Food fraud was another concern that Ghana is currently facing.

CCAFRICA25 recognized Ghana's contributions to food safety governance. The country received awards for two former coordinators, Dr. Robert Oteng and Prof. Samuel Sefa-Dedeh.

In a significant development, Gambia was elected to lead CCAFRICA from 2026 to 2027. This transition is seen as crucial for maintaining momentum across Africa.

Ghana's delegation returned home with renewed purpose and identified several priorities. They aim to deepen collaboration with regional bodies like ARSO and integrate Codex standards into national policy.

Experts believe these efforts will protect consumers and boost intra-African trade under AfCFTA. Ghana’s food safety authorities plan to modernize control systems and adopt a ‘One Health’ approach.

Mr. Sakitey stated, “CCAFRICA25 was a wake-up call.” He stressed the need to keep pace with global trends while addressing local realities in food safety.