Ghana to trial GM technology on cassava to fight mosaic virus

Cassava is expected to be the next crop to undergo confined trials with genetically modified technology to combat the Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD).

Cassava plays a role as the leading food security base, widely consumed in various forms in many parts of Ghana. But the cassava mosaic virus is considered the most important biotic constraint which greatly reduces yields.

The disease spreads easily from one field to another in most cassava growing areas as farmers continue to use infected stem cuttings as planting materials.

The application of biotechnology is therefore important to sustain production, said Eric Okoree of the Ministry of Environment, Science Technology and Innovation.

“We are doing well with cassava production but we have cassava mosaic virus… and the virus is something that the GM technology is trying to fight against. It's already on trials in Nigeria and I expect it to be in Ghana probably very soon,” he stated.

Ghana is presently undertaking confined field trials on four biotechnology crops approved by the National Biosafety Authority.

Mr. Okoree, who works with the regulatory authority, says all the four trials – Bt. Cotton, Bt. Cowpea, High Protein Sweet Potato and GM Rice – are complying with the terms and conditions under the regulations.

“As far as biosafety is concerned they are on course and Ghana is on course,” he observed.

It is early days yet to know the outcomes of these research activities but the aim is to increase food security and income for farmers.

Story by Kofi Adu Domfeh