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Genetically modified cowpea clears its first hurdle in Ghana

  • Posted By
    10Pointer
  • Categories
    Polity & Governance
  • Published
    20th Jul, 2022

Genetically modified (GM) cowpea has cleared the first of the three regulatory hurdles in the way of commercialisation in Ghana. 

  • If it is commercialised, it will be the first GM crop grown in the country – a major milestone. 

Context

Genetically modified (GM) cowpea has cleared the first of the three regulatory hurdles in the way of commercialisation in Ghana. 

  • If it is commercialised, it will be the first GM crop grown in the country – a major milestone. 

About Cowpea

  • Cowpea – black-eyed pea in some parts of the world – is a major source of protein in Ghana and the rest of the sub-continent. 
  • It is integral to Ghana’s food security. 
  • It is a staple, especially in the northern part of Ghana, where it is second only to groundnut in terms of area cultivated. 
  • Ghana is the fifth largest producer of cowpea in Africa.
    • While cowpea production is essential for Ghana, farmers face many challenges, including an array of pests. 

GM Cowpea

  • The GM cowpea has been genetically engineered to resist the Maruca pod borer. 
  • The hope is that this resistance will help decrease the amount of insecticide farmers have been using to control pests and increase yields. 
    • Insecticides are known to be deleterious to human health, but their use is on the rise throughout Africa.
  • If Ghana commercialises GM cowpea, it will join Nigeria as the second country in the world to grow it. 
  • While GM crops so far have a mixed legacy in Africa, proponents hope that GM cowpea could change that narrative.

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