Providing quality seeds to farmers is first step towards achieving food security in Ghana

Achieving food security in Ghana hinges on improving access to high-quality, disease-resistant seeds for small-scale farmers, who comprise 52% of the population.

Barriers such as logistical challenges, lack of information, and inadequate funds force many farmers to rely on low-quality seeds, undermining productivity. In 2022, 39.4% of Ghanaians faced food insecurity, highlighting the need for systemic reform.

The National Seed Trade Association of Ghana (NASTAG), supported by AGRA, launched the Seed and Inputs Fair under a project to strengthen Ghana's seed systems.

Successful models in Nigeria and Ethiopia, involving government reforms, partnerships, and local seed production, offer valuable lessons. Ghana’s Planting for Food and Jobs initiative has boosted certified seed production, but more efforts are needed to empower women farmers, who face significant resource access barriers.

Collaborative stakeholder engagement, digital tools, and gender-focused programs can enhance seed distribution and farming practices, potentially increasing crop yields by 50%.

With strong government backing and strategic partnerships, Ghana could transform into a food security leader in West Africa.