CSIR-Crops Research Institute Hosts SeedSure Workshop on Smart Technologies for Resilient Seed Systems
On February 11, 2026, the CSIR-Crops Research Institute convened key stakeholders in Kumasi for the SeedSure Workshop, aimed at strengthening Ghana’s certified and climate-resilient seed market. Participants included seed growers, regulators, agri-distributors, Ministry of Food and Agriculture officials, and farmers.
Driving Climate-Resilient Seed Systems
Opening the workshop, Dr. Hillary Mireku Botey, Senior Research Scientist and Project Leader, underscored the need for collaboration to address persistent challenges in Ghana’s agriculture, including low yields, inconsistent seed quality, and limited cold storage infrastructure.
The SeedSure project, supported by the Climate Smart Agriculture Partnership and funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, focuses on:
- Promoting climate-smart seed varieties
- Strengthening seed certification systems
- Deploying energy-efficient, low-carbon cold storage solutions
- Integrating AI-driven technologies to enhance germination and seed performance
A central innovation is the AI-Controlled Thermal Energy System, designed to improve temperature stability, reduce energy consumption, and lower carbon emissions in seed storage facilities.
AI-Powered Cold Storage Innovation
Mr. Luke Murell, SeedSure Project Manager, presented the Cold Room AI-Controlled Thermal System. The technology has demonstrated:
- 50% improvement in temperature stability
- 66% reduction in compressor cycles
- 8-10 hour charging cycles from 22-hour compression a day, with up to 8 hours of cooling without active compression
The system supports a community-based storage model, enabling distributors and aggregators to share facilities, reduce costs, and minimize spoilage risks, particularly in informal market settings where individual investment in cold storage remains limited.
Participants observed a live demonstration of the operational cold room, confirming its ability to maintain stable storage conditions and preserve seed viability.
Digital Tools for Seed Quality and Monitoring
Dr. Botey also introduced the PhenoSync Smart App, an AI-powered platform that measures seed germination characteristics through:
- Near real-time germination counts and measurement
- Predictive analytics
- Standardized data recording
- Decision-support tools for growers and seed inspectors
Strengthening Certification and Capacity
Stakeholders discussed the need for standardized laboratory conditions, improved germination testing protocols, and targeted training to enhance certification and traceability systems. Participants explored how digital tools like PhenoSync could be integrated into national seed certification frameworks.
Advancing Ghana’s Seed Sector
The workshop highlighted the transformative potential of AI-driven imaging, smart storage systems, and digital monitoring tools in building a more resilient seed sector. The Regional Director of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Dr. David Anambam commended the initiative, emphasizing that quality seeds remain fundamental to agricultural productivity and food security.
Through continued collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and private sector actors, the SeedSure project is positioned to strengthen seed quality, reduce seed losses, and support sustainable seed system in Ghana.
Contributors: Lynda G.S. Nsafoah, Clara Boateng, Riis Andreas Asare
Publisher: Enoch Bobie Agyemang
