The Food Sovereignty Ghana has cautioned Ghanaians against accepting the introduction of 14 genetically modified (GM) products, comprising eight maize varieties and six soybeans, into the food system.
The assertion is that these GM products will have long-term effects on Ghanaians, according to research.
Food Sovereignty Ghana and its allies issued this caution at a press conference in Accra.
Speaking under the theme “Say No to GMOs,” the Communication Director of Food Sovereignty Ghana (FSG), Edwin Kweku Andor Baffour, urged Ghanaians to take the approval of GMOs serious and reject Genetically Modified Organisms, as they could lead many people to the grave.
He mentioned that FSG has filed a motion in court challenging the introduction of GM products into the country. The Attorney General, who is a defendant in this case, flout court rules and allowed for the introduction of these 14 GM products. There has been an application of an interrogatory injunction on the 14 GM products and are awaiting court proceedings.
Mr. Edwin Kwaku Andor Baffuor highlighted that the court should determine whether the country needs to use GM products based on the facts the FSG has produced.
He further stated that food production in Ghana will not improve even if GMOs are introduced, as farmers depend solely on rainfall for farming. He emphasized the need for leaders to address this issue.
Food Sovereignty Ghana expressed concern about the dangers these GMOs may cause and called for thorough education on their introduction. They made the following demands to protect the rights of citizens:
The National Biosafety Authority must immediately halt the planned release of the 14 GM products until a nationwide engagement campaign is carried out.
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture must ensure that the input for Phase Two of the Planting for Food and Jobs program does not include GM varieties.
The National Biosafety Authority must release to the public the processes and proceedings for granting approval, including evidence of engagement with Ghanaians accepting the introduction of GMOs.
Proper and appropriate labels for GM products for easy identification so that farmers and consumers can make informed decisions.
The Ministry of Agriculture must address infrastructural problems in the agricultural sector.
The Food and Drugs Authority must assure the general public of how it will ensure the mandatory labelling of any GM product that will be on the market.
The media should conduct a survey with their audiences to gauge their knowledge of GMOs.
Food Sovereignty Ghana calls on the National Biosafety Authority to publish all names of entities granted licenses to import GM products for transparency.
Mr. Baffuor concluded by mentioning the allies of Food Sovereignty Ghana, stating that the Peasant Farmers Association is a signatory to their call.
He further mentioned the General Agricultural Workers Union, Centre for Indigenous Knowledge and Agriculture in Ghana, Action Aid, Rastafarian Council of Ghana, Centre for Climate Change and Food Security, among others. He concluded by stating that they look forward to making Ghana GMO-free.
