Ghana’s Crops Research Institute (CRI) is keen on establishing public-private partnerships to commercialize products and technologies developed at the centre.

As the largest of the 13 Institutes under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the CRI has the mandate to conduct research and develop new technologies for increased food security and economic growth.

But the quest to market research products in times past has been ineffective.

According to Director of CRI, Dr. Stella Ennin, in the past, the institution has worked closely with small-scale farmers and agric extension officer for technology transfer and dissemination.  

But she observes “there is a big problem with disseminating the technologies.”

The Institute is now dialoguing with industry and investors in the agriculture value chain to commercialize its research outcomes.

Dr. Ennin explains engaging industry will ensure research products are fully beneficial to the economy.

“We have to survive, research itself is not getting much funding so we have to come out with ingenious ways to for our technologies go down to the commercial people along the value chain”, she explained.

She added that “previously, we developed varieties, give to one company who is supposed to multiply the foundation seeds to be given to certified seed growers. It’s usually been small scale farmers”.

The CRI is targeting seed producers, agro input dealers, processors, the media and commercial farmers in its commercialization drive.

Robert Kwakye Nketia, Chairman of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) for Ashanti and Brong Ahafo Regions, noted that when industry collaborates with scientists, businesses will get to know what they can do to improve their businesses.

“Most of the services we didn’t even know they do here. We always go to Accra for such services. So it’s a good thing,” he said.

He welcomes the collaboration to enhance the economy and strengthen the agricultural sector.

“Because of the collaboration our productivity will go up, source of raw materials will be available and we will not be hustling. Once it will contribute to increased profit, then it is good,” Mr. Nketia said.

Meanwhile, the researchers are imploring the government to facilitate the passage of the Plant Breeders Bill to protect their intellectual property, whilst expanding opportunities to upscale commercialization of research.