Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, has emphasized the importance of not only investing in research institutions but also putting their findings into practical use to drive national development.
Speaking at the three-day Agribusiness Launchpad and Accelerator Programme, held from July 9–11, 2025, at the Impact Food Hub in Accra, the Deputy Minister pointed out that research by itself is insufficient without real-world implementation.
“Supporting research institutions is vital—without research and development, national progress is impossible.
But funding alone isn’t enough; we must actively apply the insights and recommendations produced. Institutions like the CSIR possess a wealth of expertise and resources that, if properly utilized, can significantly transform our agricultural sector.
I also believe scientific institutions such as CSIR should fall under the Ministry of Food and Agriculture,” he said.
Mr. Dumelo also urged farmers to explore dry season farming, highlighting its potential to increase yields and improve market prices.
“I always advise farmers to try dry season farming. During the rainy season, many jump into farming at the same time, leading to bumper harvests and price drops due to oversupply.
Farming during the dry season opens up better market opportunities,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mavis Owureku-Asare, CEO of Impact Food Hub, praised the government’s move to restructure the Ministry of Trade and Industry to incorporate agribusiness, calling it a step in the right direction toward boosting agricultural productivity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Concepts
1. What is agricultural research implementation?
Agricultural research implementation refers to the practical application of findings from studies conducted by institutions such as the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). In Ghana, many research reports remain unused, which hinders innovation and productivity. Implementing these findings can improve crop yields, fight pests, and adapt to climate change in real-world farming systems.
What is the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)?
CSIR is Ghana’s premier scientific research organization, responsible for generating data, innovations, and technologies across multiple sectors, especially agriculture. It operates under the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, but there is growing advocacy to place it under the Ministry of Food and Agriculture for better alignment with national food strategies.
What is dry season farming and why is it important?
Dry season farming is the cultivation of crops during the period with little to no rainfall, often using irrigation systems. In Ghana and other West African countries, this practice helps farmers avoid oversupply in peak seasons and take advantage of better market prices. It’s also seen as a way to ensure year-round food production and boost income.
What is an Agribusiness Accelerator Programme?
An agribusiness accelerator programme is a structured initiative aimed at supporting startups and small agribusinesses through training, mentorship, funding, and networking. Events like the Agribusiness Launchpad and Accelerator held at the Impact Food Hub in Accra are designed to nurture agricultural entrepreneurs and boost innovation in the sector.
What is the Impact Food Hub?
The Impact Food Hub is a Ghana-based innovation and entrepreneurship center focused on supporting agribusinesses. It serves as a platform for startups, researchers, and policymakers to collaborate on sustainable food solutions. It hosted the 2025 Agribusiness Launchpad and Accelerator Programme mentioned in the article.
How does realigning ministries benefit agribusiness?
In 2025, Ghana’s government began restructuring ministries to better align trade, industry, and agriculture. Integrating agribusiness under the Ministry of Trade and Industry helps streamline support systems, reduce bureaucratic barriers, and promote value addition and exports. This move is seen as a strategic step toward modernizing the sector.
