This section contains policy briefs that are of particular relevance to decision-makers. Decision-making is carried out at different levels. For example, it refers to policy makers who are politically responsible for developing the biomass sector (food and non-food) and formulating national bio-economy strategies. It also relates to the local, regional and national authorities that take technical decisions in areas such as land-use planning and market regulation.
Many of the prevalent horticultural and tree crop outgrower schemes in Ghana have failed over time. There is, however, a new wave of contract farming in Ghana involving staple crops. This is due to agro-industrialization and increasing domestic demand for biomass-based raw materials. It is the objective of this brief to highlight the role of contract design in facilitating sustainable contract farming arrangements between small-scale farmers and agro-processing companies. Specific recommendations that can be employed by agro-processing companies in Ghana are also made to help promote the long-term sustainability of outgrower schemes, which are mutually beneficial for the small-scale farmers and companies.
Good quality seed forms the basis for improving agricultural productivity and ensuring food security. Yet, seed certification schemes have often proved ineffective in ensuring the production of high quality seeds for farmers. It is the objective of this policy brief to highlight the major governance challenges associated with seed certification and quality control in Ghana’s commercial seed sector. This policy brief further proposes specific recommendations that can be pursued by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to help improve the management of seed quality control in Ghana.
