The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) has inaugurated the National Seed Council to provide strategic oversight and support for the development of Ghana's seed sector.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the Ministry's conference room in Accra on 24th June, 2026, was administered by the Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, Hon. John Dumelo.
Hon. Dumelo underscored the critical role of quality seeds in agricultural transformation and national food security. He noted that while government continues to invest in fertilizer distribution, irrigation, mechanisation, and the establishment of Farmer Service Centres (FSC), the success of these interventions depends largely on the availability of quality seeds.
"Seeds are an important part of the agricultural value chain. If the seeds are not of high quality, we will not achieve the desired results," he said.
The Deputy Minister urged members of the Council to serve with dedication and commitment, emphasizing that their work would be instrumental in advancing the government's agricultural transformation agenda.
Hon. Dumelo further highlighted government's efforts to reduce dependence on imported seeds and promote the development and certification of locally produced seed varieties. He called on the Council to expedite the review and approval of seed applications to enable Ghanaian seed companies to access certification more efficiently and make improved seed varieties available to farmers.
He noted that climate change and emerging agricultural challenges require the development of seed varieties that are resilient to drought, pests, and diseases, adding that the Council's role in ensuring the availability of such seeds is vital to increasing agricultural productivity.
On behalf of the Council, the Chairman, Alhaji Abubakari Mumuni expressed appreciation to His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama and the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Hon. Eric Opoku, for the confidence reposed in the members.
He assured the Ministry and the nation of the Council's commitment to delivering on its mandate.
"We are dedicated to the task ahead and I can assure you that we will live up to expectations," Alhaji Mumuni stated.
The National Seed Council is expected to play a key role in regulating, coordinating, and promoting the development of the seed industry to ensure farmers have access to high-quality planting materials, thereby contributing to increased agricultural productivity and food security in Ghana.