CSIR-CROPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE RECEIVES MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE BOOST FROM CGIAR-CROPS TO END HUNGER PROGRAM
As part of the Facilities Upgrade and Mechanization Improvement, a CGIAR-Crops to End Hunger project funded by Germany through GIZ, the CSIR-Crops Research Institute, Ghana’s leading agricultural research institution, has received a significant boost with the inauguration of a refurbished building. The upgraded facility enhances working space and provides solar-powered cold storage. This system will support the Institute’s storage of germplasm and breeding lines, post-harvest data collection, and preparation of seed samples for planting.
The refurbishment cost was approximately US$114,000. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was performed by Professor Maxwell D. Asante, Director of CSIR-CRI, and Alice Kabeja, Breeding Operations Support Manager for West and Central Africa at CGIAR Breeding Resources.
The CGIAR-Crops to End Hunger program has also provided state-of-the-art equipment, including a drip irrigation system covering 28 hectares, a tractor, field soil test kits, mobile thresher, planter, plow, laser leveler, mowers, rotavator, power harrow, manual seeder, seed counters, harvest master, boom sprayer, seed moisture tester, and handheld tablets.
Speaking at a brief sod-cutting ceremony to mark the initiative, Prof. Asante, expressed gratitude for the support, stating that the upgraded infrastructure will enhance research in crop breeding. “This investment will help us to increase genetic gain for various crops on famers’ fields,” Prof. Asante said.
CGIAR Breeding Resources representative, Vinicius Pereira da Rocha emphasized the importance of strong research institutions in driving agricultural transformation. “By equipping CSIR-CRI with modern infrastructure, we are ensuring that scientists have the necessary tools to develop innovative solutions for Africa’s agricultural challenges,” he noted.
Scientists at the Instititute welcomed the development, expressing optimism that improved research facilities will help facilate their work.
This partnership between CSIR-CRI and CGIAR reaffirms the commitment of both institutions to advancing agricultural research and strengthening Ghana’s agricultural sector through science and technology.
Authors: Mr. Bernard Sakyiamah, Enoch Bobie Agyemang, Dennis Gyasi Boakye
