(Des Moines, Iowa: November 4, 2024) The governments of Nigeria and Ghana have received praise for their leadership in promoting modern agricultural biotechnology in Africa. Professor Aggrey Ambali, Chair of the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), commended both countries for their commitment to the research, development, and commercialization of genetically modified cowpeas and maize.
Speaking at the AATF Investors Roundtable held during the 2024 World Food Prize in Des Moines, United States, Prof. Ambali highlighted recent milestones with regards to agricultural biotechnology in the two countries noting the breakthrough decisions to release two key food crops to market.
“I recently participated in Ghana’s official launch of its first insect-protected cowpea, the Pod Borer Resistant Cowpea, marking a significant achievement for the country. Ghana’s efforts follow Nigeria’s lead, where farmers are already experiencing the benefits of cultivating this crop,” he said.
Prof. Ambali also praised Nigeria for launching TELA Maize, Africa’s first insect-protected and drought-tolerant transgenic maize outside of South Africa.
‘’I was impressed by the pride and leadership shown by both governments and their strong support for science-driven agricultural advancement,” he remarked, adding that the breakthrough in the two countries not only boosts agriculture but also sets a milestone for Africa.
He noted the recognition given to local scientists and the eagerness of seed companies to meet market demands, which has energized farmers. “The scientists in Ghana and Nigeria are highly regarded, and seed companies are keen to support farmers, who are excited by the ease of growing these new crop varieties,” Prof. Ambali added.
He attributed much of this progress to partnerships between AATF and country governments, which helped establish enabling environments for innovation in both countries. “The success of these projects creates a pathway for future initiatives to advance more swiftly and reach their goals faster,” Prof. Ambali said.
Looking ahead, Prof Ambali highlighted the extensive pipeline of products at AATF, encouraging stakeholders to collaborate with the foundation in its mission to drive agricultural innovation. He also invited the partners and investors attending the event to the upcoming 2nd African Conference on Agricultural Technologies (ACAT), the premier platform focused on science, technology, and innovation (STI) for African agriculture to be held in Kigali, Rwanda, from June 9–13, 2024,
About AATF (www.aatf-africa.org)
Founded in 2003 to address Africa’s food security prospects through agricultural technology, AATF believes that the agricultural sector is a key foundational pillar as Africa consolidates its economic growth and carves out its new position as a major global economic powerhouse and the next growth market in the world. It was formed in response to the need for an effective mechanism that would facilitate and support negotiation for technology access and delivery and formation of appropriate partnerships to manage the development & deployment of innovative technologies for use by smallholder farmers in SSA.
For further information. Photos and video contact:
Alex Abutu Communication Officer (West and Central Africa) AATF.
+2348068701960 a.abutu@aatf-africa.org
