Arima Farms, CSRI-Crops launch Ghana Wheat Initiative

Arima Farms Ghana, a leading agricultural company, and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Crops Research Institute (CRI) have launched the Ghana Wheat Initiative.

The initiative is a groundbreaking project aimed at promoting domestic wheat production, reducing imports, and creating economic opportunities for farmers.

It was launched at a field day event at Fumesua near Kumasi, where 326 wheat germplasm were showcased.

In a telephone interview, the Managing Director of Arima Farms Ghana, Saalai Manikam, said: "Today, we take a bold step towards Ghana's food security with the launch of the Ghana Wheat Initiative.

"This project is a call to action, and we invite all stakeholders to join us in achieving wheat self-sufficiency and empowering our farmers," she said.

Background

The Ghana Wheat Initiative is a result of a two-year research and development collaboration between Arima Farms and the CRI.

It has received support from various stakeholders and partners, including the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and the Indian High Commission, Ghana.

The initiative introduces Wheat Pride 999, developed by Greenpride (India), alongside varieties from CIMMYT, carefully selected for heat and drought tolerance, zinc, iron and protein biofortified, high yields and climate resilience.

These varieties have undergone rigorous testing across six regions and agroecological zones of Ghana and have shown promising results.

The Ghana Wheat Initiative aims among others to begin and promote domestic wheat production and reduce imports.