CSIR-CROPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE
ANNUAL REPORT - 2012
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Compiled by
Isaac S. Baning, Linda Agyeman and Ruth Adu-Donyinah
Editorial Team
Isaac S. Baning and J.N.L Lamptey
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CSIR-CROPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE
Vision
To become a centre of excellence for innovative and quality agricultural research for development
Mission
To develop and disseminate environmentally-sound technologies for high and sustainable food and industrial crops productivity to enhance food security and poverty reduction.
Contacts
The Director CSIR-Crops Research Institute P.O. Box 3785 Kumasi.
Tel. Fumesua (Head quarters): (233) 03220-60396, 60425, 60389, 60391
Kwadaso: (233) 03220 – 60221, 60222
Fax: 03220 – 60396
E- mail: [email protected], [email protected]
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Research activities carried out in 2012 focused on the Institute’s mandate crops as well as on climate change. Technology transfer activities and a workshop on gender issues were also organized as presented below:
Maize
The maize programme made efforts to identify/develop materials with resistance to aflatoxin infection and others with high pro-vitamin A content for safe and improved nutrition. Six improved varieties were released during the year. Breeder and Foundation seeds of the released materials and some elite materials were also produced.
Rice
Crosses were made to develop high yielding rice varieties with superior aromatic and culinary characteristics. A collection of rice accessions from Africa, USA and other parts of the world were also assessed for cooking and eating qualities. Some of the accessions from Africa exhibited heterozygosity and need to be purified to improve their grain quality.
Legumes
Aflatoxin resistant lines, high oil content and rosette resistant lines were evaluated to select suitable materials for possible adoption. A hybridization programme to develop rosette-resistant materials progressed with the harvesting of some F2 materials. Four improved varieties were released during the year. Breeder seeds of previously released materials were produced to meet farmers’ demand.
Four bean (Phaseolus lunatus) accessions obtained from East Africa were evaluated for seed yield and suitability for intercropping with maize. Other types of beans -common beans, local lima beans and canning beans – were also evaluated to identify suitable lines for cultivation in Ghana.
Sweetpotato
Six, out of seven, materials introduced from East Africa, were selected for further observation after a preliminary evaluation with some local and improved varieties. Crosses were also made to improve the dry matter content of some orange-fleshed varieties. Four improved varieties were released during the year.
Yam
Over 16,000 clean and healthy seed yams of 10 varieties including Dente, Pona, CRI Kukrupa were produced for distribution to farmers and seed producers. In a farmer participatory evaluation of some yam varieties, it came up that there is the need for gender consideration in variety development. Some stable and high yielding D. alata genotypes with high tolerance to anthracnose have been identified as
4 possible candidates to be released in the near future. The minisett technique was used to produce 10,000 seed yam of some popular landraces for distribution to farmers.
Cocoyam and Taro
Over 110 local and exotic accessions of taro were evaluated. All the accessions, except five of them had good cooking qualities and tasted good. Three improved varieties of cocoyam were released during the year. Plots were established to multiply planting materials of the released varieties for dissemination.
Cassava
Multiplication fields were established at eight locations to produce healthy planting materials of four cassava varieties released in 2010. A hundred (100) lines of exotic and local materials were planted at Fumesua to establish the extent of genetic diversity and the identity of the materials, using morphological and molecular characterization. A participatory evaluation of 40 cassava clones was carried out with farmers and extension workers in ten communities across three ecological zones. Most of the materials showed no symptoms of cassava mosaic disease. Sensitization programmes were carried out to dispel the misconceptions some farmers had about improved varieties.
Resource and Crop Management
Under the Sustainable Intensification of Integrated Crop-Small Ruminant Production Systems Project, sensitization activities, diagnostic surveys and formal surveys, covering 240 farm households and 40-60 value chain actors were carried out in all the four countries involved in the project. Three value chains for meat, cereals and legumes and their major actors were identified. A fourth value chain (for milk) was found only in Mali. The constraints identified in the value chains were being addressed on the Innovation Platforms to strengthen the value chains. This project is being carried out in Ghana, Benin, Mali and the Gambia, using the Integrated Agricultural Research for Development (IAR4D) approach.
A jab planter (for seeding) and a shield for herbicide application were introduced to some farmers in the Ashanti region to improve the efficiency of their field operations.
Other activities reported are:
a study to assess the effect of cropping systems on surface and sub-surface flows, infiltration, soil moisture storage, evaporation and evapotranspiration, a study to evaluate the performance of a sprinkler irrigation system installed at the Institute during the year.
Plant Health
Results of some evaluation trials indicated that two CRI released rice varieties and a local variety were tolerant to the rice yellow mottle virus disease. Sixteen cassava varieties released by some Institutions in the country were assessed for their reaction to major diseases of cassava. Results of surveys conducted
5 in some tomato growing areas in the Ashanti, Brong Ahafo and Upper East regions showed that tobacco mosaic tobamovirus (TMV) and cucumber mosaic cucumovirus (CMV) were widespread in the regions.
A collection of 219 tomato accessions from Ghana, South Korea, Taiwan and Burkina Faso were assessed for their reaction to the Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCU) - a major tomato disease in Ghana. Samples of whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) – a vector of TYLCV - were collected to study their behavior so that strategies can be developed to manage the spread/incidence of the virus.
Studies were carried out to identify sources of nematode resistance in yams and tomatoes. Some nematode species were identified in the experimental fields.
Climate Change
Studies on the effect of climate change began in the Ankasa water watershed in the Ankasa forest reserve (western Region). Some data have been collected on the people in the target area - their occupation and knowledge about climate change.
Technology Transfer
Activities carried out under the DONATA project and achievements recorded thereof as well as Farmer Field Fora and Farmer Field School activities carried out during the year have been reported.
Gender Issues
A workshop was organized at the Institute to develop a gender action plan for workers at KNUST – CANR and CSIR-CRI. Highlights of the outcome of the workshop are presented.
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List of Acronyms
ADRA - Adventist Relief Agency AGRA - Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa AAWID - Association of African Women in Development AusAID - Australian Agency for International Development CIAT - International Centre for Tropical Agriculture CIDA - Canadian International Development Agency CIDA/FABS - CIDA/Food and Agriculture Budgetary Support CIMMYT - International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre CIP - International Potato Centre CIRAD - Centre de Cooperation Internationale en Recherche Agonomique pour le Cooperative Initiative CRSP - Collaborative Research Support Programme CSIR - Council for Scientific and Industrial Research CSIR-ARI - CSIR-Animal Research Institute CSIR-CRI - CSIR-Crops Research Institute CSIR-FORIG - CSIR-Forestry Research Institute of Ghana CSIR-FRI - CSIR-Food Research Institute CSIRO - Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Organization CSIR-PGRRI - CSIR-Plant Genetic Resources Research Institute CSIR-SARI - CSIR-Savannah Agricultural Research Institute CSIR-SRI - CSIR-Soil Research Institute CSUC - Christian Services University College DBNRRC - Dale Bumpers National Rice Research Center DONATA - Dissemination of New Agricultural Technologies in Africa DTMA - Drought Tolerant Maize for Africa FAO - Food and Agricultural Organization FARA - Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa FBO - Farmer-based Organization GLDB - Grains and Legumes Development Board ICRISAT - International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-arid Tropics IITA - International Institute for Tropical Agriculture ILRI - International Livestock Research Institute INEA - International Network of Edible Aroids KITA - Kumasi Institute of Tropical Agriculture KNUST - Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology KNUST-CANR - KNUST -College of Agriculture and Natural Resources KTI - Kumasi Technical Institute MoFA - Ministry of Food and Agriculture NCSU - North Carolina State University (USA) NRI - Natural Resources Research Institute PABRA - Pan African Bean Research Association PPRSD - Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Department QPM - Quality Protein Maize RDA-KAFACI - Rural Development Administration-Korea /Africa Food and Agricultural Cooperative Initiative
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RTIMP - Root and Tuber Improvement and Marketing Project - SASHA - Sweetpotato Action for Security and Health in Africa UDS - University of Development Studies UEW - University of Education, Winneba UoG - University of Ghana USAID - United States Agency for International Development USDA-ARS - United States Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Research Service WAAPP - West Africa Agricultural Productivity Programme WECARD/ CORAF- West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development
List of Tables
1. Some attributes of six maize varieties released in 2012 2. Grains yields (t/ha) of hybrid maize from three locations 3. Maize Breeder/Foundation seed produced in 2012 4. Some characteristics of groundnut varieties released in 2012 5. Some characteristics of sweetpotato varieties released in 2012 6. Some characteristics of cocoyam varieties released in 2012
List of Plates
1. Seeds of groundnut variety ‘Yen ya woso’ 2. Seeds of groundnut variety ‘Obolo’ 3. Taro fields showing landraces and exotic clones 4. Exotic taro plant in flower 5. Taro plant infected by leaf blight disease 6. Leaves and cormels of cocoyam variety ‘Gye me di’ 7. Leaves and cormels of cocoyam variety ‘Akyede’ 8. Leaves and cormels of cocoyam variety ‘M’aye yie’ 9. A female farmer sowing maize with a jab planter during a demonstration at Begoro
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RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
MAIZE IMPROVEMENT
Screening for Resistance to Aflatoxin Contamination in Maize
Research Team: L.M. Tengan, K. Obeng-Antwi, E. Moses, M.B. Ewool and F. C. Danso.
Collaborating Institution(s): Nil
Source of funding: Premium Foods Ltd
Objective
To identify genotypes or cultivars as source materials for developing maize varieties that are resistant to aflatoxin contamination to ensure food safety as well as enhancing the potential of maize as an export commodity.
Summary of progress
Reports of high levels of aflatoxin contamination of maize in Ghana and the health implications have been raised in recent times. Efforts have therefore been initiated to help mitigate the problem.
One hundred and two (102) intermediate maturing maize cultivars made up of eighty-four (84) white grained and eighteen (18) yellow grained types were planted at Fumesua. At maturity, five ears were randomly selected and inoculated with the conidia of Aspergillus flavus extracted from infested maize ears. At harvest (5 weeks later), ears of each inoculated cultivar were examined physically for rot. Samples of the ears were also shelled for laboratory analysis at KNUST and IITA. Results were awaited.
Assessment of Pro-Vitamin A Contents of Commercial and Elite Maize Varieties in Ghana
Research Team: M.B. Ewool, F.C. Danso, H. Asumadu and A. Agyeman
Source of funding: Harvestplus
Collaborating Institutions: CIMMYT, IITA, CSIR-SARI, MOFA and FBOs
The high prevalence of Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) in Ghana is partly attributed to low bio-available Vitamin A in the predominantly cereal and root and tuber based foods consumed by adults and infants. Since maize is a major staple in Ghana, a feasible approach to minimize VAD is to develop and promote the production and utilization of maize varieties that have high levels of bio-available vitamin A.
Objectives:
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Assess lines and varieties of maize with high pro-vitamin A content introduced from international centers and other sources for agronomic performance and adaptive traits Evaluate in collaborative trials testcrosses and synthetics with high pro-vitamin A content across locations Conduct on-farm evaluation of promising hybrids and synthetics for agronomic performance and release to farmers Promote production and utilization of maize varieties with high and stable pro-vitamin A content
Summary of progress
Nine Pro-vitamin A experimental varieties that are adaptable to our local conditions were ordered from IITA and reconstituted into a trial named H+PVA Trial 2. The trial was planted at Kwadaso, Fumesua, Ejura, Wenchi, Pokuase, Kpeve, Nyankpala and Yendi, with two commercial varieties, as checks, to evaluate the yield and agronomic charateristics of the varieties and also assess their pro-vitamin A contents. Grain yields (combined for Fumesua, Kpeve and Nyankpala) ranged from 2.8 t/ha to 5.3t/ha with significant difference (P<0.01) among the varieties. Most of the introduced varieties out yielded the local checks by more than 40%. Data were also collected on days to 50% flowering, days to mid-silk, incidence and severity of diseases (streak, rust and blight) The trials at Kwadaso, Ejura and Yendi were hit by drought and so recorded low yields (0.8t/ha-3.3t/ha). Samples of the materials were sent to IITA for carotenoid content analysis. Results were awaited.
Testing of Maize Varieties for Yield and Industrial Suitability in the Southern Ecological Zones of Ghana
Research Team: M.B. Ewool, F.C.Danso, H. Asumadu, E. Moses and M.B. Mochiah
Collaborating Institutions: MoFA and Farmer Organisations
Source of funding: WIENCO
Objectives
To test promising maize varieties on-station for adaptability, yield and tolerance to diseases, pests and drought Recommend superior genotypes for on-farm testing Release superior genotypes to farmers for seed production
Summary of progress
Nine (9) new experimental varieties (hybrids) were evaluated, alongside three commercial varieties as checks, at Kwadaso, Fumesua, Ejura, Kpeve, Wenchi and Pokuase to identify superior stable yielding
10 varieties. Data collected indicated that the varieties behaved differently in the different environments. The highest mean yield (5.5 tons/ha) was obtained from Pan 10 and the lowest (2.1 and 2.2 tons/ha) from Pan 68-110 and Pan 3Q-222 respectively. No severe diseases were observed in most of the varieties across the locations, though Pan 3Q-222 which seemed to be the earliest in flowering was highly susceptible to maize rust. Two of the materials (Pan 53 and Pan 7M-89) were planted for inspection by the National Variety Release and Technical Committee pending their release.
Variety Release
The National Variety Release Committee endorsed six new maize varieties developed by the maize programme, for release to farmers. The varieties and some of their special attributes are presented in Table 1 below.
Table 1. Some attributes of the six maize varieties released to farmers.
Breeder’s Released name Maturity Seed Special attributes Pot. yield code (in Akan language period colour (tons/ha) and meaning) (Days) M0826-4 CSIR-CRI 110-115 White Moderately tolerant to drought 6.7 Aseda (Thanks) Very good for domestic purposes
M0826-7 CSIR-CRI 110-115 White Moderately tolerant to drought 7.5 Ɔpεaburoo Very good for domestic purposes (Drought tolerant) M0826-12 CSIR-CRI Tintim 110-115 White Moderately tolerant to drought 7.9 (Stand firm) Very good for domestic purposes A0804-5 CSIR-CRI 110-115 Orange Pro-vitamin A content of 6 µg/g, 7.9 (Wonderful) Suitable for human, poultry and livestock consumption, Excellent for industrial preparations such as grits and kenkey A0806-2 CSIR-CRI Ɔdomfo 110-115 Orange Pro-vitamin A content of 6 µg/g, 6.5 (Helper) Suitable for human, poultry and livestock consumption, Excellent for industrial preparations such as grits and kenkey PVA SYN 6 CSIR-CRI Honampa 110-115 Orange Pro-vitamin A content of 7 µg/g 5.2 (Healthy skin) For improved nutrition and health Suitable for human, poultry and livestock consumption Excellent for industrial preparations such as grits and kenkey
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Drought Tolerant Maize for Africa Project: Development of Extra-Early, Early and Intermediate Maturing and Drought Tolerant Maize Varieties in Ghana
Research Team: K. Obeng-Antwi, M.B. Ewool, M. Tengan, F. Coffie Danso, H. Halidu* and M.S. Abdulai* (*CSIR-SARI)
Collaborating Institution: CSIR- SARI
Source of funding: DTMA Project (through IITA)
Objectives
To identify high and stable yielding drought tolerant maize germplasm To develop drought tolerant experimental varieties (EVs), hybrids and synthetics from this germplasm To evaluate promising drought tolerant varieties in multi-location trials To release superior drought tolerant maize hybrids and varieties to farmers in Ghana and other interested national programmes To produce breeders’ seed of released drought tolerant maize hybrids and varieties for interested stakeholders
Summary of Progress
Activity 1
Seed increase of breeding materials in the program including extra-early, early and intermediate maturing drought tolerant inbred lines from IITA
A total of 117 drought tolerant inbred lines from IITA made up of 39 extra-early, 30 early and 48 intermediate maturing materials were planted in the breeding nursery at Fumesua during the major season to increase seed for crossing in the minor season. Various quantities (0.2 to 11.8 kg) of seed of the different lines were produced. Some lines in the three maturity groups were crossed.
Activity 2
Single cross hybrid formation involving IITA extra-early, early and intermediate maturing drought tolerant inbred lines
A hybrid maize development programme was initiated in 2010 to develop drought tolerant maize hybrids, with superior yielding capacity, for all three maturity groups for the diverse growing conditions in Ghana. In 2012, twenty (20) early maturing inbred lines were crossed using a diallel design. Ninety (90) F1 hybrids with adequate seeds were selected and constituted into a trial, which was carried out at Fumesua, Ejura and Kpeve. Results showed highly significant differences among locations (P<0.001) and
12 among entries within locations (P<0.001). Location x Entry interaction was also significant. Grain yields from the three locations are presented in Table 2 below.
Table 2. Grain yields (t/ha) of hybrid maize from 3 locations
Location Yield for the Mean yield for hybrids top 20 hybrids Ejura 3.2 – 5.3 3.5 Fumesua 3.8 – 6.3 4.6 Kpeve 5.4 – 8.5 5.7
Data were also collected on number of days to flowering, plant and ear heights, lodging and reaction of the entries to major maize diseases in Ghana.
Activity 3 Evaluation of top crosses formed from extra-early maturing drought tolerant inbred lines of maize
A total of 39 top crosses from some early maturing IITA inbred lines and four early/extra-early populations from the local programme were constituted into a trial which was conducted at Fumesua, Ejura and Kpeve during the major season. Three open-pollinated varieties (Omankwa, Aburohemaa and Akposoe) from the local programme were used as checks. Grain yields, were generally high, ranging from 4226 kg/ha to 5057 kg/ha. The top five topcrosses, on the average yielded 4926 kg/ha, out- yielding the three checks, Omankwa, Aburohemaa and Akposoe by 9.5%, 27.2% and 61.8%, respectively. The highest grain yields were recorded at Kpeve while the lowest were recorded at Ejura. Data were also collected on days to mid-silk, plant height, root and stem lodging and reaction to major diseases.
Activity 4
Station Variety Trials
Two station variety trials were conducted at Fumesua, Ejura, Pokoase and Kpeve to evaluate materials from IITA, Pioneer, Wienco and the national maize programme for subsequent release. Data were collected on grain yield, number of days to flowering, plant and ear heights, lodging and reaction to major prevalent maize diseases in Ghana. Comments from farmers during field days helped in the selection of varieties for release. It is therefore recommended that stakeholders should contribute financially towards the organization of at least three field days at each location where trials are established.
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Development and Promotion of Hybrid Maize Varieties in the Forest and Forest-Transition Zones of Ghana
Research Team: K. Obeng-Antwi, M.L. Tengan, M.B. Ewool, D. Puozaa, J. K. Addo, H. Asumadu, M. Mochiah, A. Oppong, J. Osei-Adu, K. Osei and A. Ankomah
Collaborating Institution: IITA
Source of funding: AGRA
Maize cropping systems in Ghana are characterized by low productivity due to drought, low soil Nitrogen, and Striga hermonthica infestation in the Guinea and Sudan Savannah zones. The use of open-pollinated varieties has also contributed to low maize productivity in Ghana. A hybrid maize development programme was initiated to develop high and stable yielding maize hybrids, with tolerance to drought and the major diseases and pests of maize, for the diverse growing conditions in Ghana.
Objectives
To increase the availability of stable high yielding maize hybrids with tolerance/resis- tance to the major biotic and abiotic stresses in the forest and forest-transition agro- ecological zones of Ghana
To enhance the capacity of local seed companies and farmer associations in techniques of inbred line maintenance and multiplication, quality seed production and distribution to farmer groups.
Summary of progress
Activity 1
Seed Increase of Extra-Early Maturing Quality Protein Maize (QPM) Inbred Lines
Obatanpa, an open-pollinated QPM variety, which was released in 1992 still remains the number one choice of maize consumers in Ghana. Drought stress is one of the major constraints to maize production and productivity in Ghana. The use of extra-early and early maturing varieties therefore, holds promise in the fight against drought in the sub-region. Twelve extra-early QPM inbred lines obtained from IITA were planted for seed increase in the breeding nursery during the minor season. A total of 13.3 kg of seed was produced. These will be planted in the major season of 2013 for further multiplication and crossing.
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Activity 2
Promotion of Released Varieties
Demonstration plots were established at Fumesua to help personnel from seed companies and other stakeholders to observe the newly released varieties (at the vegetative and harvesting stages) in the research fields and to obtain more information on the varieties from the scientists. Seven (7) representatives from four seed companies, one agro-processing industry and the funding agency (AGRA) visited the fields. Six (6) University students on an attachment programme and a Liberian student (at KNUST) undertaking his research at CSIR- CRI also visited the Maize Breeding Nursery to acquaint themselves with breeding activities at CSIR-CRI.
Activity 3
Variety maintenance activities
Parental lines of the released hybrids (Mamaba, Etubi and Enibi) were grown in the breeding nursery at Fumesua for purification. The lines involved were Entry 5, Entry 6, Entry 70, Entry 75 and Entry 85. Plants, typical of the particular inbred line, with the desired characteristics were selected and increased through sibbing. At harvest, desirable cobs from each of the lines were selected and bulk-shelled. These would be planted again for further purification.
Activity 4
Breeder and Foundation Seed production
Breeder and Foundation seeds of popular released maize varieties were produced to meet the demand from Seed Companies for such varieties. The quantities of seeds produced are presented in Table 3 below.
Table 3: Maize Breeder/Foundation Seed produced in 2012
Variety/Line Description Quantities (kg)
Obatanpa QPM Open Pollinated Variety 1300 Abontem BS Extra-Early DT OPV 200 Abontem FS Extra-Early DT OPV 800 Omankwa BS Early Drought Tolerant OPV 130 Aburohemaa BS Early Drought Tolerant OPV 40 GH110 FS Single Cross Female Parent 1750 Entry 5 BS Male Parent for Mamaba 150 Entry 6 BS Female Parent for GH110 50 Entry 70 BS Male Parent for GH110 550 Entry 75 BS Male Parent for Enibi 500 Entry 85 BS Male Parent for Etubi 190
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RICE IMPROVEMENT Development of High Yielding Rice Varieties with Superior Grain Quality
Research Team: M. Darko Asante, H. Doku, R. Bam, G. Acheampong, E. Annan-Afful, S. Abebrese*, J. Ofori** and S. McCouch*** (*CSIR-SARI, **UoG Research Station, Kpong, ***Cornell University)
Collaborating Institutions: CSIR-SARI, UoG, MoFA and Cornell University, USA
Source of funding: Nil
Objective To develop high yielding rice varieties with superior grain quality (aromatic, good cooking qualities and good taste).
Summary of Progress
Rice crosses including Jasmine 85/Sikamo, Jasmine 85/ IR71137-184-3-2-3-3 and IR71137-184- 3-2-3-3/Sikamo were planted under lowland conditions at Fumesua. The Jasmine 85/Sikamo cross is being advanced through pedigree breeding. Based on agronomic performance, 70 F3 plants were selected out of 100. Out of the 70 selected plants, 40 individuals that were aromatic were planted as F4 families.
The two other crosses (Jasmine 85/ IR71137-184-3-2-3-3, IR71137-184-3-2-3-3/Sikamo) were being advanced through single seed descent (SSD). Five-hundred (500) F2 plants each of the two crosses were planted. Single (F3) seeds from all the individual F2 plants of the two crosses were harvested in November, 2012.
Incorporation of grain quality genes from Jasmine 85 into Digang rice
Source(s) of funding: Nil
Research Team: M. Darko Asante, H. Doku, R. Bam, G. Acheampong, E. Annan Afful, W. Dogbe*,J. Ofori**, S. McCouch*** (*CSIR-SARI, **UoG Research Station, Kpong, ***Cornell University, USA)
Collaborating Institutions: CSIR-SARI, UoG, MoFA and Cornell University, USA
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Objectives
To map quantitative trait loci (QTLs) responsible for various grain quality traits in Jasmine 85 To combine the stress tolerance of Digang and the superior grain quality of Jasmine 85 in one variety Summary of progress
Crosses were made between Jasmine 85 and Digang. The F1s were backcrossed to Digang to generate 80 BC1F1s which were planted. Sixty-one (61) BC1F1 individuals were randomly selected out of the 80, and 8 seeds from each individual were planted to generate a BC1F2 population of 488 plants. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted from the leaves of all 488 BC1F2 individuals and shipped to Cornell University, USA, for genotyping. Phenotypic data including plant height, number of tillers, grain dimensions, aroma and starch physicochemical properties were collected. Using Marker Assisted Selection eight (8) BC1F2 individuals have been selected based on percent genotypic background of the recurrent parent (Digang) (≥70%), presence of aroma, amylose content (15-22%) and alkaline spreading value (3-7). A total of 42 QTLs were found for all the traits studied. Some new QTLs were detected for the first time.
Physicochemical and Molecular Characterization of Rice Accessions for Grain Quality
Research Team: M. Darko Asante, R. Bam, E. Danquah*, S.K. Offei*, A. McClung** and R. Bryant** (*UoG, **DBNRRC, (USA)
Collaborating Institutions: UoG and DBNRRC (USA)
Source(s) of funding: AGRA, USDA- ARS and DBNRRC
Objective(s)
To characterize a set of African and US rice germplasm for starch physicochemical properties associated with cooking and eating qualities of rice To identify genetic markers associated with the key eating and cooking quality traits that can be used in rice cultivar improvement programmes
Summary of Progres
A set of 65 rice accessions, from Africa (mainly) and other parts of the world, and a diverse set of 23 cultivars from U.S., were assessed at Fumesua, for cooking and eating qualities such as aroma, gelatinization temperature, apparent amylose content and paste viscosity properties. Wide diversity was found for all the traits studied. The phenotypic variances were higher in the U.S. germplasm compared to the African accessions. Some African accessions exhibited
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heterozygosity and will have to be purified to improve their grain quality. The physicochemical characterization of individual lines will facilitate the breeding of rice for grain quality in Africa. The development of new rice varieties with superior grain quality will improve the patronage of domestically produced rice to the benefit of farmers and consumers.
LEGUMES AND OIL SEEDS
The objectives are to develop high and stable yielding, early and medium- maturing varieties of legumes and oil seeds (including cowpea, groundnut and soybean), that are resistant/tolerant to pests and diseases with consumer-acceptable characteristics and to disseminate improved technologies to farmers and other stakeholders.
GROUNDNUT IMPROVEMENT
Research Team: J.Y. Asibuo, S. Amoah,, S. N.N. Addy, H. K. Adu-Dapaah, K. Adjei Bediako, J. Donkor, A. Oppong, M.B. Mochiah, E. Moses, A. Agyeman, K. Osei and H. Asumadu
Collaborating Institution: ICRISAT (Mali)
Source of funding: AGRA
Activity 1
Aflatoxin Resistant Groundnut Trial
Objective
To evaluate improved aflatoxin resistant groundnut lines and select adapted lines for multi- locational testing
Summary of progress
Fourteen aflatoxin resistant groundnut lines received from ICRISAT, Mali, were tested at Fumesua, for the second year running, to select lines with superior attributes for further testing. Data collected indicated that, days to 50% flowering ranged from 26 to 29; maturity ranged between 99 and 107 days. Pod yield ranged from 1181 and 2762 kg/ha. Mean shelling percentage (pod to seed ratio) and 100 seed weight were 69.2% and 41.6 g respectively.
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Activity 2
High Oil content Groundnut Trial
Objective
To evaluate some improved high oil groundnut lines at Fumesua and select adapted lines for testing on farmers’ fields.
Summary of progress
Twelve lines of high oil groundnut were planted at Fumesua for evaluation alongside two local checks. Days to 50% flowering ranged from 23 to 26. Maturity differed between 105 and 109 days. Mean pod yield ranged from 548 to1790 kg/ha. Mean shelling percent and 100 seed weight were 68% and 42 g respectively.
Activity 3
Hybridization program
The following materials were harvested from on-station trials at Fumesua: F6 plants, F4 plants and backcrossed F2 plants (from crosses made between farmer-preferred groundnut varieties and lines that are resistant to rosette disease). F2 pods generated from crosses between confectionery groundnut lines and rosette resistant varieties were also harvested. All relevant data were collected. Individual plants showing resistance/tolerance to rosette and bearing a good pod load will be selected and multiplied for further evaluation in 2013.
Activity 4
Rosette Resistant Groundnut Trial
Objective
To evaluate introduced rosette resistant groundnut lines and select adapted lines for further testing on-station.
Summary of progress
Ten groundnut varieties released in Uganda were acquired by AGRA for evaluation in Ghana. These varieties, and two improved varieties (Adepa and Nkosuor) as local checks, were constituted into a trial and planted at Fumesua. Adepa and Nkosuor took 109 days and 113 days respectively to mature. The Ugandan materials took 108 – 114 days to mature. Adepa and Nkosuor produced 600 kg and 361 kg/ha of pod yield respectively. Four of the Ugandan materials produced 1002 – 1083 kg/ha. The rest yielded between 361 and 801kg/ha of pods. Data were also collected on days to 50% flowering.
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Activity 5
Release of Improved Groundnut Varieties
Four improved groundnut varieties, with rosette resistance/tolerance, developed by the Legumes programme were released to farmers, with the approval of the National Variety Release and Technical Committee. Some of the characteristics of the varieties have been presented in Table 4 below.
Table 4. Some of the characteristics of the groundnut varieties released.
Variety Local Name Maturity Potential Some Special Attributes (and Meaning) (days ) Pod Yield (t/ha) ICGV 97049 Obolo 105 - 110 2.7 Suitable for the savanna, forest/savanna transition and semi-deciduous forest ecologies; Semi-erect; (Ga - fat) Shelling % -70; Oil – 48%; Protein – 29%; Brown seed colour; Sweet taste, good flavour and good for confectionery.
ICG (X) SM 87057 Yenya woso 90 2.7 Suitable for the savanna, forest/savanna transition and semi-deciduous forest ecologies; Semi-erect; (Akan - There Resistant to rust; Oil – 50%; Protein -30%, Dark red is none like seed colour; Suitable for oil production. you) ICGU 88709 Otuhia 105 2.4 Suitable for the savanna, forest/savanna transition and semi-deciduous forest ecologies; Spreading; (Akan - Gets rid Oil – 49%; Protein – 30%; Brown seed colour; Dual of poverty) purpose (high seed and fodder yield).
ICGV 98412 Oboshie 105 - 110 2.6 Suitable for the savanna, forest/savanna transition and semi-deciduous forest ecologies; Semi-erect; (Ga - Big) Brown seed colour, Shelling % - 67; Oil – 46.5%; Protein 34%; Good flavour; Sweet taste; Good for confectionery.
Plate 1. Yenya woso Plate 2. Obolo
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Breeder Seed production
One and a half (1.5) tons of breeder seed of four previously released varieties (Adepa,Nkosour, Azivivi and Jenkaa) were obtained from fields established at Ejura and Kwadaso.
BEAN IMPROVEMENT
Research Team: J.Y. Asibuo, K. Osei, M. Moses, M. Mochiah, A. Agyeman, A. Adu-Appiah, P. Acheampong and B.N. Frimpong
Collaborating Institution: Nil
Source of funding: PABRA
Beans are richer in iron and zinc than most crops and their consumption will go a long way to address hunger and malnutrition among the vulnerable population. Bean research is new in Ghana. Dry beans eaten in Ghana are lima beans (Phaseolus lunatus) and imported baked beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) sold in supermarkets. However there are no records on the quantities imported into the country.
Maize/Bean Intercropping Trial
Objective
To evaluate improved bean accessions and identify lines adapted to intercropping for multi- locational testing
Summary of progress
Four bean accessions (from East Africa) and one maize variety (Obatanpa), were evaluated at Fumesua, both as intercrops and sole crops. Grain yields were generally low due to drought. High temperature during the pod filling stage of the bean also adversely affected the pod and grain yields of the beans. The pods developed normally, but the filling was poor. Bean seed yield ranged from 64 to 280 kg/ha. Maize grain yield ranged from 1526 to 1787 kg/ha on the different plots. The intercropped fields produced relatively more yield for both bean and maize. Data were also collected on days to 50% flowering and maturity.
Other Bean Trials
Trials were conducted at Fumesua to evaluate different accessions of beans - local lima beans (8), common bean lines (20), from PABRA and canning bean lines (20) also from PABRA. Data were collected on days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, seed yield and a hundred seed weight. Lines with desirable traits were selected for further evaluation.
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SWEETPOTATO IMPROVEMENT
Development of High and Stable Yielding Consumer Acceptable Sweetpotato Varieties.
Research Team: J.N. Asafu-Agyei, K. Adofo, E. Baafi, N. Asamoah-Obeng, J. Awoodzie, A. Danquah, E. Moses, E. Adu-Kwarteng, A. Aubyn, M.D. Quain, J. Asibuo, M. Mochiah, J. Addo, J.N.L. Lamptey, H. Asumadu, H. Braimah, G. Bolfrey-Arku, A. Ankomah, F. Nyarko, T. Carrey* and H.K. Dapaah** (*SASHA, CSIR-CRI, ** UEW (Mampong))
Collaborating Institutions Universities in Ghana, CSIR Research Institutes, MoFA, Ministry of Health (Nutrition Dept); Farmers/Farmer Groups; CIP (Peru and Uganda), SASHA
Source of funding: WAAPP
Objective
To develop high and stable yielding, disease and pest resistant sweetpotato varieties with improved qualities in terms of consumer acceptance, processing and nutritional values (high beta-carotene, dry matter, starch and flour contents).
Activity 1
Collection, conservation, characterization and evaluation of local and exotic sweetpotato germplasm
A broad genetic base of germplasm is essential for population development and selection of desirable genotypes for genetic improvement, with special emphasis on orange-fleshed sweetpotato (OFSP). Seven introduced cultivars from East Africa (442267; Jayalo; BP-SP-2; 440390; 442162; TIS 9265/10 and Jitihada) were evaluated at the preliminary stage at Fumesua and Pokuase. Faara (a released variety) and Blue Blue (farmers’ variety in the Central region, Ghana) were included as checks. Six of the materials (442267; 440390; 442162; TIS 9265/10; Jitihada; Blue Blue) were finally selected for further observation and selection.
Activity 2
Hybridization of parental clones by introgression of desirable genes into adapted germplasm.
Crossing blocks were established at Fumesua. Genetic crosses were carried out between suitable local and exotic germplasm to improve the dry matter content of the OFSP varieties. The materials used for the crosses were Santom Pona, Apomuden, Otoo, Faara, Hi-Starch, Sauti, Okumkom, Ogyefo and 440390. Seeds collected from the cross pollinations totalled 3938 and seeds from open pollinated
22 materials totalled 5864. The seeds would be germinated in 2013. Some varieties were selected for their low sugar content.
Activity 3
Preliminary Yield Trial (PYT) – 1
Seeds from crosses made in 2010 and planted for observation in 2011, were planted in PYT in 2012. Ten promising lines would be selected and planted on station, at Fumesua, Ejura, Pokuase, Ohawu and Komenda in 2013.
Preliminary Yield Trial (PYT) – 2
Seeds from crosses made in 2011 were planted, on-station, for observation in 2012. Fifty promising lines were selected to be evaluated in 2013, at Fumesua, Ejura, Pokuase, Ohawu and Komenda, for agronomic and postharvest traits.
Advanced Yield Trials (AYT) 2
Nine sweetpotato lines were evaluated, alongside two released materials, at Fumesua, Pokuase , Ohawu and Komenda to assess their fresh root yield, dry matter content and reaction to virus infection. Root yields were generally low ranging from 1.15 to 16.59 t/ha across locations. Root dry matter was 24.8 - 39.8%. Virus scores ranged between 1.0 and 9.0. The lowest virus scores were obtained at Fumesua while the highest scores were obtained from Ohawu. Sucrose content was relatively high (9.81 – 24.07%). The target traits are: fresh root yield of at least 20t/ha; dry matter content of at least 40%, virus score below 2 and sucrose content of less than 5%.
Release of improved varieties
Four improved varieties were approved by the National Variety Release and Technical Committee for release in December 2012. Some characteristics of the released varieties are presented in Table 5.
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Table 5. Some characteristics of the released sweetpotato varieties.
Genotype Local name Meaning Some Characteristics Mohc CSIR-Patron (French) Strong Leader Maturity: 4mths; Potential yield: 20t/ha; DM: 34%, Starch content: 69.4 mg/100g DW; β carotene level: 2800µg/100g; Tolerant to SPVD and Cylas; Suitable for ampesi and deep fried chips.
199062.1 CSIR- Bohye (Twi) Promise Maturity: 4mths; Potential yield: 22t/ha; DM: 31 %; Starch content: 68.1 mg/100g DW; β carotene level: 5500 µg/100g; Moderately tolerant to SPVD but tolerant to Cylas; Suitable for ampesi, deep fried chips and French fries.
Kemb 37 CSIR- Dadanyuie Good mother Maturity: 4mths; Potential yield: 18t/ha; (Ewe) DM: 35%; Starch content: 68 mg/100g DW; Tolerant to SPVD and Cylas; Suitable for fufu, ampesi and industrial starch production.
Cemsa 74-228 CSIR- Ligri (Guruni) Cash Maturity: 4mths; Potential yield: 22t/ha; DM: 35%; Starch content: 69.5mg/100g DW; Moderately tolerant to SPVD but tolerant to Cylas; Suitable for ampesi.
YAM BREEDING
Establishing a Sustainable Availability of High Quality Seed Yam on a Commercially Viable Basis in Targeted Areas
Research Team: E. Otoo, K. Osei, P. Oteng-Darko, P. Appiah-Danquah and S. K. Amponsah
Collaborating Institutions: IITA, Catholic Relief Service, GLDB, PPRSD, UDS, NRI (UK), FOSCA and CSIR-SARI
Source of funding: Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
The Yam Improvement for Income and Food Security in West Africa (YIIFSWA) is a 5-year programme being conducted in Ghana and Nigeria. It aims at:
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increasing productivity (yield and net output) of small-holder yam farms (less than 2 acres) in Ghana and Nigeria, by 40% of 200,000, in the next five years;
delivering key global good research products that will contribute to the longer term vision. Ghana is expected to achieve a quarter of the set target and Nigeria to do the rest.
In Ghana, the project is being conducted in the Guinea Savannah zone (Mion and East Gonja districts) and the Forest-Savannah Transition zone (Ejura, Kintampo and Atebubu districts) by CSIR-CRI and the collaborating multi-institutional partners. CSIR-CRI, UDS and CSIR-SARI are to develop breeder seed; GLDB to produce foundation seed and PPRSD to certify planting materials.
Objective
To move the production of all categories of seed yam from the informal sector, where control of quantity and quality is poor, to the formal sector where these can be managed to ensure better standards and productivity.
Summary of progress
During the year, 16,500 clean and healthy seed yams were produced at Atebubu, Kintampo and Fumesua. The varieties involved were Mankrong Pona (3000), Dente (8600), CRI Kukrupa (580), CRI Pona (55), Pona (1000), Lilee (900), TDr 95/19177 (1000), Numbo (800) and TDr 95/18544 (20) and Afebetua (1000).
Evaluation and Scaling Out of Yam Production Technologies with Improved and Popular Local Varieties
Research Team: E. Otoo, K. Osei, P. Oteng-Darko, P. Appiah-Danquah and S. K. Amponsah
Collaborating Institutions: IITA and CSIR-SARI
Source of funding: WAAPP
Objective
To deliver to farmers, novel varieties accompanied by the total planting package ie fertilizer and recommended spacing, among others.
Summary of progress
Trials were established in the Forest-Savannah Transition (FST) zone (Ejura, Atebubu, Kintampo) and Guinea Savannah zone led by CSIR-CRI and CSIR-SARI respectively with technical
25 backstopping from IITA. In the FST, a total of 95 yam farmers (50 males and 45 females) were involved in the evaluation at the harvesting stage. Yields were generally poor and could be attributed to late planting of trials and erratic rainfall pattern resulting in generation of small tubers. Most of the tubers were so small that they could only pass as seed yams (less than 0.5kg). Ranking in terms of preference, with respect to tuber yield, differed with sex. Location specific preferences were also observed. Three genotypes had general appeal at all locations. The study showed that there is a strong case for gender consideration in variety development as well as genotype by location differences.
Farmer Participatory Evaluation of Yams in Three Agro-ecologies
Research Team: E. Otoo, K. Osei, P. Oteng-Darko, P. Appiah-Danquah and S. K. Amponsah
Collaborating Institutions: Nil
Source of funding: WAAPP
Objective
To develop high yielding, pest and disease tolerant yellow yams in Ghana.
Summary of progress
This study started in 2009 at Bodwease, Ejura and Fumesua using participatory approaches to evaluate a collection of 65 yellow yams in Ghana. Five promising genotypes were identified and evaluated on-farm in 2011/2012. Results from the on-farm studies showed that all the genotypes were high and stable yielding as well as pest and disease tolerant. A combined analysis of the data over years and location will be completed and a proposal submitted for the release of the promising varieties.
Evaluation of Dioscorea alata
Research Team: E. Otoo, K. Osei, P. Oteng-Darko, P. Appiah-Danquah and S. K. Amponsah
Collaborating Institution: Nil
Source of funding: WAAPP
Dioscorea alata L., (water yam or greater yam) is the most widely distributed and cultivated species of yam. In Ghana, it is the second most important yam species. Its average yield is 40-
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50t/ha (compared to 10-12t/ha for D. rotundata) and can store up to 12 months. It is a cheap source of flour for the bakery industry and can be used for most food preparations. However, it is the most susceptible Dioscorea species to Anthracnose disease and nematodes.
Objective
To identify stable and high yielding genotypes, resistance to anthracnose and possessing good culinary characteristics.
Summary of progress
A total of 120 water yam accessions have been evaluated for four years at Fumesua. Five (5) identified promising accessions were evaluated on-farm at Ejura, Kintampo and Atebubu in 2012. Very stable and high yielding D. alata genotypes with high tolerance to anthracnose have been identified. These will be further evaluated on-farm in 2013 and proposed for release in 2014.
Promoting the Use of Minisetts from Mother Seed Yams of Dioscorea rotundata as a Rapid Method for Propagation
Research Team: E. Otoo, K. Osei, P. Oteng-Darko, P. Appiah-Danquah and S. K. Amponsah
Collaborating Institution: Nil
Source of funding: WAAPP
Yam has a low multiplication ratio of 1:6 (double harvesting) and 1:40 (minisetting) compared to 1:500 for cereals. There is the need, therefore, for an effective and efficient technique for increasing the multiplication ratio.
Objective
To generate Quality Declared Seeds of popular landraces of yam.
Summary of progress
The minisett technique was used to multiply some popular landraces of yam (‘Pona’, ‘Dente’, ‘Afebetua’, ‘Laribako’ and ‘Muchumudu’) at Kintampo and Atebubu. An average of 10, 000 seed yams were generated at each location and were distributed to farmers for planting in their fields. Some were kept by the scientists for further multiplication.
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Validation of Vine Multiplication Technology
Research Team: E. Otoo, K. Osei, P. Oteng-Darko, P. Appiah-Danquah and S. K. Amponsah
Collaborating Institutions: Nil
Source of funding: WAAPP
Objective
To validate the vine technology for rapid multiplication of yam planting materials in Ghana.
Summary of progress
Yam vines excised from mother plants of four varieties – ‘Mankrong Pona’, ‘Dente’, ‘Afebetua’ and ‘Muchumudu’ - were planted, at a population of 40,000/ha, on ridges with the normal soil and on other ridges with the soil amended with carbonized rice husk. The work was done at Fumesua. Data were collected on establishment, rate of sprouting and pest and disease incidence and severity. Results showed that there were varietal differences, with ‘Mankrong Pona’ performing better than the rest of the varieties. Soils amended with carbonized rice husk supported better plant establishment than the normal soil alone.
COCOYAM BREEDING
Adapting Edible Aroids ( Xanthosoma and Colocasia spp.) to Climatic and Commercial Change.
Research Team: E. L .Omenyo, J.N. Lamptey, M. Quain, F.M.Tetteh* and H. Asumadu (*CSIR-SRI)
Collaborating Institutions: CSIR-PGRRI and CIRAD
Source of funding: European Union
Goal
To use edible aroids as a model to improve clonally propagated crops of the tropics, which are difficult to adapt to new circumstances (as they rarely flower or set seed)
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To broaden the genetic base and to produce plants adapted to changing conditions - climate change, pests and diseases, market needs and trade
Objectives
To assemble and share genetic resources of taro from diverse genepools To promote international collaboration among breeders and farmers. To produce by conventional and participatory breeding, new varieties of an underexploited crop with high agronomic and commercial potential
Summary of progress
Eighty five (85) local and thirty three (33) exotic accessions from the Southern Pacific Community (SPC) were planted at Nobewam (Ashanti Region), for observation. Measurements were taken between 5-6 months after planting. Data on above ground qualitative and quantitative characteristics were collected according to the IPGRI Taro descriptor (IPGRI, 1999).
Plate 3. Taro fields showing landraces (left) and exotic clones (right)
Plant height for 85% of the landraces was 50-100cm, the rest were <50cm; Most (85%) of the exotic clones were 100-150cm. Records were also taken of leaf shape, leaf blade colour, time from planting to flowering and corm yield. Diseases observed were of fungal origin mostly suspected to be Leaf Blight caused by Phytopthora colocasiae. Infection rate ranged was 94% for the local and 72% for the exotic. All accessions were of good cooking quality and tasted good, except five local accessions which were acrid. Samples of dried leaves and dried corms of the landraces were sent to CIRAD for physicochemical and molecular analysis.
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Plate 5. Taro plant infected by leaf blight disease
Plate 4. Exotic taro plant in flower
Farmer Participatory Development of High Yielding, Disease and Pest Tolerant Cultivars of Cocoyam (Xanthosoma spp.) with Acceptable Culinary Properties.
Research Team: E.L. Omenyo, R. Sagoe, S, Yeboah, M. Quain, F.M. Tetteh, J. Aidoo, G. Bolfrey- Arku, A. Ankomah and E. Moses
Collaborating Institutions: MoFA, CSIR- PGRRI and INEA
Source of funding: WAAPP
Objectives: To develop high yielding cocoyam cultivars which are disease/ pest tolerant and acceptable to end users.
Summary of progress
An inspection plot (one acre) of four elite clones of cocoyam, proposed for release, was established at Fumesua. The four elite clones had been selected from over 100 clones that had been evaluated with farmers at Fumesua, Assin Foso, Kukuom and Begoro for 3-4 years.
Release of improved varieties
The National Variety Release and Technical Committee inspected the plot in August 2012, and gave approval for the release of three of the clones as varieties. Some of the characteristics of the released materials are summarized in Table 6.
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Table 6. Some characteristics of released three cocoyam varieties Clone New name/ Meaning Maturiry Pot. Yield Other attributes Uses Language (MAP) (mt/ha) SCJ Gye me di Trust me 12-15 8.0 58.22% DM; Purple Suitable for fufu, 98/005 (Akan) cormel; Tolerant to ampesi, oto, bread root rot, mosaic and confectionery virus, leaf blight ADE 011 Akyede Gift 12-15 7.6 Purple cormel, Suitable for fufu, oto, (Akan) Tolerant to root rot, ampesi, fried chips, leaf blight, mosaic bread and virus confectionery
AGA M’ aye yie I am better 12 5.7-6.0 59.88% DM; White Suitable for 97/162 (Akan) off cormel. Tolerant to confectionery, root rot, leaf blight, ‘nuhuu’ and ampesi mosaic virus
Plate 6. Leaves and cormels of ‘Gye me di’
Plate 7. Leaves and cormels of ‘Akyede’
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Plate 8. Leaves and cormels of ‘M’ aye yie’
Multiplication Plots
Following the release of the three improved varieties of cocoyam, one acre multiplication plot of planting materials for each variety was established at Kukuom, Assin Foso, Begoro and Fumesua for dissemination to farmers. Fifty farmers at each location have been targeted to benefit from the planting materials of the three improved varieties.
CASSAVA PROGRAMME
The Cassava Programme has focused on developing and disseminating improved production technologies (improved varieties and good production practices) to farmers and other stakeholders to increase productivity. It has also provided training and backstopping to Extension Agents from MoFA and some NGOs involved in technology dissemination.
CASSAVA IMPROVEMENT
Research Team: J. Manu-Aduening, G. Bolfrey-Arku, J.N.L. Lamptey, H. Braimah, M. Mochiah and B. Boakye Peprah
Collaborating Institutions: CSIR-PGRRI, CSIR-SRI and MoFA
Source of funding: WAAPP
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Objective
To develop high yielding cassava varieties tolerant to biotic and abiotic stresses, acceptable to consumers including agro-industries.
Activity 1
Multiplication of newly released cassava varieties
Summary of progress
Breeder/multiplication fields (11.6 ha) of four cassava varieties (CRI-Ampong, CRI-Sika bankye, CRI-Broni bankye and CRI-Otuhia) released in 2010, were established at Fumesua, Ejura, Aworowa, Wenchi, Ainyinase, Ohawu, Adidome and Mampong to produce healthy planting materials for farmers. This was expected to plant at least 116 ha in 2013. A total of 5.2 ha of breeder fields established in 2011were also maintained and coppiced in June 2012. Planting materials were picked by MoFA staff at Wenchi, Mampong and Asuansi, and some MoFA district directorates in Ashanti, Brong Ahafo, Eastern, Volta and Central Regions. The rest of the materials went to farmer groups and individuals in the Ashanti, Brong Ahafo, Central and Volta Regions. Over 60 ha of production fields were planted.
Activity 2
Assembling and characterization of landraces and improved cassava cultivars for development of new varieties
Objective
To establish the extent of genetic diversity and the identity of different cassava cultivars in Ghana
Summary of progress
A hundred (100) lines made up of 70 landraces and 30 exotic clones were planted in the fields in May, 2012. Data were collected on incidence of pests and diseases (cassava mosaic disease, cassava bacterial blight and cassava green mites) at 1, 3 and 6 months after planting. Data were also collected on some morphological characters including colour of apical leaves, petiole and leaf vein colour, pubescence, length and width of leaf lob and petiole length, among others. Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers will be used for molecular characterization of the materials.
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Activity 3
Genetic crosses between landraces and improved cultivars for development of improved varieties
Objectives
To develop suitable varieties preferred by farmers and other stakeholders. To improve farmers’ access to a diversity of high yielding, disease resistant cassava clones appropriate to their needs and other end-users.
Summary of progress
Forty (40) landraces and twenty (20) exotic cultivars were established in crossing blocks in May, 2012 at Fumesua. Manual (diallel) crosses started in October. Over 1950 crosses were made and seed collection started December 2012. Selected lines from F1 seedling field (established in 2011) were planted in June. Data collection on pests and diseases started in September. Data on plant growth and development will start during the first quarter of 2013. Twenty-one (21) individuals were cloned in 2012 at Fumesua based on their poundability. The clones will be harvested in 2013, and selected ones will be advanced to other locations.
Activity 4
Multi-locational participatory evaluation of clones for food and industrial uses
Objectives
To elicit different stakeholders’ needs and preferences for the different cultivars To sensitize stakeholders on the attributes of different cultivars
Summary of progress
Six best clones selected from each lot (for food and industrial uses) were planted at Fumesua and six other locations in the forest, coastal savannah and forest-savannah transition zones, between June and August, 2012. Data on agronomic traits as well as pest and diseases were collected and would continue till 12 months after planting (MAP). The best lines will be validated using serological /nucleic acid base tests, biochemical and culinary analyses, prior to their release in 2014/15.
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Validation and Dissemination of Improved Cassava Landraces Developed Through Introgression of CMD Resistance into Farmer Preferred Landraces for Food and Other Uses in Ghana
Research Team: J. Manu-Aduening, G. Bolfrey-Arku, J.N.L. Lamptey, H. Braimah, M. Mochiah and B. Boakye Peprah
Collaborating Institutions: CSIR-PGRRI, CSIR-SRI and MoFA
Source of funding: AGRA
Objectives
To improve farmers’ access to a diversity of high yielding and disease resistant cultivars appropriate to their needs and the need of other end users through participatory evaluation and selection To sensitize farmers and other stakeholders on the attributes of the improved varieties. To establish multiplication sites at community levels within the target ecological zones to multiply improved released varieties
Summary of progress
A participatory evaluation of 40 cassava clones was organized with farmers and extension workers in ten (10) communities including Nsuta, Abura Dunkwa (forest zone), Wenchi, Aworowa (forest-savanna transition zone) Akatsi and Ohawu (coastal savanna zone). The most desirable traits, according to the farmers, included poundability, skin colour of the roots, earliness, yield, wide canopy, suitability for intercropping and absence of rotteness of roots. Yield (high dry matter), earliness, poundability and wide canopy were emphasized at all locations. Root skin colour was linked to poundability. Fresh root yields of the clones ranged between 19 t/ha and 65 t/ha. Eight of them produced mean yields above 50 t/ha. Most (75%) of them showed no symptom of cassava mosaic disease. Six best clones out of the 40 have been identified. Sensitization programmes, including group discussions during the field days and demonstrations, were carried out to dispel the misconceptions some farmers had about improved varieties.
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RESOURCE AND CROP MANAGEMENT
Sustainable Intensification of Integrated Crop, Small Ruminant Production Systems in West Africa
Lead Scientists: S.A. Ennin, CSIR-CRI, Regional Coordinator S. Amoah, CSIR-CRI, National Coordinator, Ghana. H. Nantoume, IER, National Coordinator, Mali. A. Anselme, UAC, National Coordinator, Benin. M. Saho, NARI, National Coordinator, The Gambia.
Collaborating Institutions: KNUST, CSIR-ARI, CSIR-SARI, UoG, ADRA, MoFA, CSIRO, ILRI and ICRISAT
Sources of funding: AusAID and CORAF /WECARD.
The project is being conducted in the sub-humid (Ghana and Benin) and Semi-arid (Mali and The Gambia) agroecologies of West Africa. The project is piloting two districts per country. In Ghana the districts are, Atebubu-Amantin and West-Mamprusi Districts, with on-station research backup. The project is using the Integrated Agricultural Research for Development (IAR4D) approach, which involves innovation platforms, combining the knowledge domains of scientists, farmers and other key value chain actors along the cereal /legume-sheep and goats value chain.
Specific Objective
To develop and strengthen the crop-sheep and goats value chain in the sub-humid and semi-arid regions of West Africa and increase productivity for poverty reduction and enhanced food security.
Summary of Progress
Sensitization, diagnostic surveys and formal surveys, covering 240 farm households and 40-60 value chain (VC) actors, were conducted in all four countries. Three value chains (for meat, cereals and legumes) and their major actors were identified in the cereal/legume-sheep and goats farming system. A fourth, the milk VC was found only in Mali. The importance of actors varied with each country, for example due to high rate of theft of small ruminants in Benin, security agents are key actors. The constraints identified in the VCs are being addressed on the Innovation Platforms (IPs) to strengthen the VCs. Gender analysis revealed that women had a
36 voice especially in gender focus group discussions. Men dominated the roles of accessing land, disease control, fattening, slaughtering, marketing of live animals as well as meat and hide. Women dominated in feed preparation, pen cleaning and cooking and have some decision making roles in the sale of small ruminants. Children played key roles in feeding, watering, tethering, shepherding and pen cleaning.
The following activities were also carried out:
Field experimentation to characterize genotypic coefficients of cowpeas and groundnuts for DSSAT and APSIM models in Ghana and Benin.
Dual purpose varieties of groundnut and cowpea were evaluated with farmers and crop- sheep and goat actors in countries where IPs have been established. Popular varieties were multiplied but due to drought, quantities harvested would not be enough for distribution to farmers in each country in 2013. Four dual purpose groundnut and cowpea lines from ICRISAT and IITA were multiplied for regional trials in 2013.
Monitoring of growth and yield determinants of prevailing cereal/legume systems and soils, crop residue storage and supplementary feeding, live weight changes and manure production of small ruminants was initiated with 22-24 farmers per country. Factors contributing to low crop yields (such as use of local varieties, excessively high plant population densities and leaching of nitrates below the crop rooting zones), and those contributing to low weight gain of animals (such as supplementation with groundnut husk and cowpea pods instead of the haulms), were identified as IP issues for 2013.
Eight IPs with small ruminant feeding and soil fertility as entry points were established in Ghana, and four IPs with feed production and processing, small ruminant feeding, seed production and soil fertility as entry points were established in The Gambia. Some initial successes were achieved on the IPs.
An update of the impact pathway in response to the recommendations of an external mid-term project review in June, 2012.
On-Station and On-Farm Soil Moisture and Nitrate Monitoring
Research Team: Stella A. Ennin, E. Owusu Danquah, R. Stirzaker*, S. Yeboah, P. Oteng- Darko and H. Asumadu (*CSIRO)
Collaborating Institutions: CSIR-SARI, MoFA, and CSIRO
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Source(s) of funding: AusAID and CORAF/WECARD
Objectives To monitor soil moisture and nitrate contents on cropped fields on-station and on farmers’ fields Identify alternative methods for optimizing crop residue utilization for soil health and small-ruminant nutrition.
Summary of Progress
A study was conducted, on-station, at Fumesua, on a site continuously cropped with cowpea and maize. Soil moisture content was determined at 0-30cm, 30-60cm and 60-120cm depths. Samples of soil solution were collected at the different depths and the nitrate concentrations determined in the laboratory. Data from the cowpea field indicated that there was much soil moisture variation in the top soil (0-30 cm), during the crop cycle. The top soil had a high proportion of sand and so dried out faster, compared with the lower depths - (60cm and 120cm). The root zone of the crop was also within the top-soil (0-30) cm and so more water was drawn by the roots from that level. Soil nitrate was also more concentrated in the subsoil (60cm) than in the topsoil (0-30cm). This could also be attributed to the roots of the plants operating mostly in the topsoil and therefore depleting the nitrate at that level - more so when the study was conducted on a continuous cropped site with low soil organic matter.
In the maize field, water movement in the top soil (0-30cm) and sub-soils (60cm and 120cm) followed a similar trend as the cowpea field with much variation within the top soil than the sub-soil. During the growth period of the maize, the nitrate was more concentrated in the subsoil than in the topsoil. This could be because the cowpea residue had not decomposed enough to release enough nitrate until 21-30 days after planting. This suggests that synchronization studies would be needed in a cowpea-maize rotation system, so that the maize can be planted at the right time to take advantage of the nutrients from the cowpea residue. Similar studies were conducted on the fields of ten farmers from the Atebubu-Amantin and Mamprusi-West districts. Data from the farmers’ fields were being compiled for analysis at the time of reporting.
Monitoring of Cereal-Legume Rotation/Intercropping Systems On-Farm
Research Team : S.A. Ennin, S. Yeboah, E. Owusu Danquah, A. Agyeman and P. Oteng-Darko
Collaborating Institutions: KNUST, CSIR-ARI, CSIR-SARI, UoG, ADRA, MoFA and CSIRO Source(s) of funding: AusAID and CORAF /WECARD.
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Objectives:
To investigate cereal -legume cropping systems in the fields of selected farmers To generate technological options for cereal-legume cropping systems. To disseminate recommended options to improve crops/small ruminant production system.
Summary of progress As part of the sustainable intensification of crops-small ruminant production systems in West Africa, funded by AusAID, a study was carried out on farmers’ fields at Atebubu and Amantin, in the Atebubu- Amantin district (Forest-Savannah transition zone) and Wulugu and Wungu in the West Mamprusi district (Guinea savannah zone), to monitor cereal-legume rotation or intercropping systems. Six farmers (three males and three females) from each of the four communities were involved in the study. Soil and plant samples were taken from the farmers’ fields for physico-chemical analysis. Data from the Atebubu–Amantin district, showed that maize grain yields recorded by all the farmers’ were low (less that 5t/ha) in both the major and minor rainy seasons. The low yield might be due to the high weed pressure observed, use of local (unimproved) varieties and inadequate fertilizer application. Cowpea yields, on the other hand, was good (1.5 to 2.5 t/ha). The relatively high cowpea grain yield recorded by some farmers might be due to the adoption of recommended practices in weed control, plant density, planting method and the use of improved varieties. A significant positive correlation was observed between grain yield, stover yield and plant height. Plant stand and weed biomass on the other hand negatively correlated with grain yield and stover yield. This suggests that high plant stand and weed biomass is suppressive to grain and stover yield. A combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers, can help in a sustainable cereal-legume rotation. Data from the other locations were yet to be analysed.
Enhancing Water Use Efficiency in Maize Production
Research Team: P. Oteng-Darko, S.A. Ennin, J.N. Berchie, S. Yeboah and E. Owusu Danquah
Collaborating Institutions: KNUST and UoG
Source of funding: AusAID
Objective
To assess the effect of cropping systems on surface and sub-surface flows, infiltration, soil moisture storage, evaporation and evapotranspiration.
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Summary of progress
The study was conducted at Fumesua, on plots of maize/cowpea intercrop (MCI), sole crop maize (SM) and sole crop cowpea (SC). The crop varieties used were ‘Obatanpa’ (maize) and ‘Asontem’ (cowpea) respectively. Agronomic data such as number of days from sowing to 50% emergence, first flowering, tasseling and silking (for maize), days to 50% pod formation, grain fill (for cowpea), physiological maturity and grain yield were collected for both crops. Soil samples were taken prior to planting and at harvest to determine soil physical and chemical properties. Soil moisture and nitrate contents were also measured at different soil depths. Leaf area index (LAI) was determined as a measure of canopy cover to be used in deriving evapotranspiration and water infiltration values.
Data collected so far indicated that as at 35 days after planting, the amount of water retained in the soil at 30 cm depth for all the three treatments/plots (SM, SC and MCI) was low compared to the other depths. This implied that plants in the three treatments required more pressure to draw water at 30 cm depth. At 60 cm depth there was enough moisture in the soil for the SM and SC treatments. But the MCI plot had less moisture hence required higher pressure to draw water. At 90 cm depth, the soil had the highest water retention and so the plants on all plots required the least pressure to draw water. Water use efficiency (WUE) will be determined as a ratio of yield (kg of crop ha-1) to actual evapotranspiration (ETa, mm). Differences in WUE between the treatments would be determined and compared for different cropping seasons.
Staking and Non-Staking Options in Yam Production for Adaptation to Climate Change
Research Team: S.A. Ennin, E. Otoo, E. Owusu-Danquah, R.N. Isaaka* and J.N.L. Lamptey (*CSIR-SRI)
Collaborating Institution: MoFA
Source of funding: WAAPP
Objective To investigate the use of chemical fertilizer, mechanized seedbed preparation and staking options to curtail the annual shifting of land and deforestation associated with yam production.
Specific objectives To evaluate the effect of staking options on the growth and yields of three yam varieties at Fumesua and Ejura
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To evaluate the effect of seedbed option and fertilizer levels on the growth and yield of ‘Dente’ (a popular white yam variety in Ghana) To evaluate the effect of seedbed and staking options on performance of yam on newly cleared farmers’ fields To evaluate the effect of fertilizer and seedbed options on the performance of yam on continuously cropped farmers’ fields
Summary of progress Farmer-managed verification and demonstration fields were established at Hiawoanwu, Shankoko and Drumankoma (Ejura/Sekyedumase district) and Bachaaso and Nyomoase (Atebubu district) in April 2012, using two yam varieties (Water yam and Dente) and a line (TDR89/19177). The work was done on continuously cropped farmers’ fields, which would normally not be used for yam production by farmers. Data were collected on rate of sprouting, stand establishment, fresh and dry weights of shoots (leaves and vine) and tuber yields. Soil samples were collected at 0-30cm for analysis. The crops were harvested at all locations in December 2012. Farmer field days were organised in each community to demonstrate to the farmers: • the use of fertilizer to sustain yam production on continuously cropped fields, • ridging as an improved alternative to mounding for yam production • horizontal staking for sustainable yam production on newly cleared fields
The field days were attended by 66 farmers and 31 extension workers. Data collected were yet to be analysed.
Evaluating the Growth and Yield of Salvia hispanica (Chia) for its Suitability as an Oilseed Plant in Ghana.
Research Team: S. Yeboah, J.N.L. Lamptey, I. Adama, M.B. Mochiah, P. Oteng-Darko, E. Owusu Danquah, K. and H. Adu-Dapaah
Collaborating Institutions: PPRSD (MoFA), CSIR-SRI and CSIR-FRI
Source(s) of funding: The Original Chia AS and Invest in Ghana
Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) is a mint plant in the Lamiceae family. It is an annual herbaceous plant rich in fibre, protein, Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids. It also contains antioxidants and amino acids, particularly lysine. The seeds have become a popular health food due to their high nutrient composition. Exploratory trials were conducted at CSIR-CRI, Fumesua, to assess the performance of the crop in Ghana and so determine the suitability of the plant for cultivation in Ghana.
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Specific objectives
To determine the best agronomic practices for the cultivation of Salvia hispanica To assess the performance of the crop in the forest ecology of Ghana To determine the nutritional composition of the plant when grown in the Ghanaian environment
Summary of progress
A field trial was carried out, after a preliminary trial in the screen house had shown that the seeds were free from seed borne diseases. Data collected from the field trial indicated that the highest plant density (40,000 plants/ha) produced the highest biomass and seed yields - (14t/ha) and (8t/ha) respectively. There were no differences between direct planting and transplanting of seedlings, in terms of biomass and seed yield. A total of 35 insects were collected from the plants, using a sweep net. These were made up of:
Eighteen (18), suspected sucking insects (yet to be identified) Ten (10) coreid bugs, of the Hymenoptera order, known to attack cowpea Three (3) Lagria sp (foliage beetles) of the order Coleoptera, Three (3) grasshoppers of the order Orthoptera One (1) Diopsis of the order Diptera.
Wilting caused by Fusarium sp was observed on a few plants. The preliminary results seem to suggest that the plant can be cultivated in Ghana with the appropriate agronomic package.
Performance Assessment, Monitoring and Evaluation of Portable Sprinkler Irrigation System at CSIR-Crops Research Institute, Fumesua
Research Team: P. Oteng-Darko, E. Annan-Afful and S.K. Amponsah
Collaborating Institution: Nil
Source of funding: None
Objective
To evaluate the performance of a sprinkler irrigation system installed during the year at the Institute at Fumesua.
Expected benefits of the study would include:
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improving irrigation efficiency and reducing stress on water resources and losses of water and nutrients to groundwater and surface water resources findings would serve as a guide in scheduling irrigation and the implementation of future sprinkler systems for irrigating larger areas with a given volume of water contribute to knowledge in the field of irrigation practice in Ghana
Summary of progress
The following measurements have been taken:
Sprinkler Rotation Speed: Several sprinklers were selected and the time they took to make one revolution, during spraying, was recorded. Operating pressure: The pressures within zones were measured at the sprinkler nozzles Using pitot tube pressure gauges. Sprinkler discharge rate: This is the volume of water discharged from typical sprinklers per unit time and their averages. Sprinkler application rates: These are measured so that the time needed to apply specific depths of water can accurately be determined. The flow rate at the pump and area of each irrigated zone were measured using a flow meter. Swath radius (the farthest distance covered by water droplets (throw) from the sprinkler) was measured during the dry season (September) when the irrigation system was operating at full pressure. A single sprinkler test was carried out in the field to determine the sprinkler water distribution pattern. The block test was yet to be done. Uniformity of Water Application: Locations, closer and farther from the irrigation pump at both high and low elevations, were selected, to measure the system’s ability to apply the same depth of water to every unit area. Irrigation performance indices: These include the application efficiency (Ea) and the low- quarter distribution uniformity (DUlq).
Data collected were being collated for analysis at the time of reporting.
Determination of Crop Water Requirement and Irrigation Scheduling for CSIR-CRI Mandate Crops
Research Team: P. Oteng-Darko and S. Yeboah
Collaborating Institution: Nil
Source of funding: None
Objectives To calculate evapotranspiration (crop water use)
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To determine crop water requirements of CSIR-CRI mandate crops To schedule irrigation activities at the Institute’s research fields. Summary of progress The study was carried out at Fumesua. Climatic data (minimum and maximum temperatures, rainfall, wind speed and relative humidity) sourced from the weather station at the Institute were analysed and fed into FAO’s CROPWAT model for simulations. Crop coefficient values for simulation were also compiled to be validated using results from on-station trials.
On-farm Testing of a Jab Planter and a Shield for Planting and Weeding in Maize respectively.
Research Team: P. Osei-Bonsu and Owusu Bio* (*KTI) Collaborating Institutions: MoFA and KTI
Source of funding: WAAPP
Objective
To demonstrate the efficiency of a jab planter (for planting maize) and a spray shield (for herbicide application for weed control) in reducing the drudgery in maize farming.
Summary of Progress
A jab planter, introduced from China, was tested on farmers’ fields at Mampong, Begoro, Nsuta, Nkawie, Tepa, Goaso, Kumawu and Agona in the 2012 major season. The shield designed locally, was used to apply a herbicide (Paraquat). The control treatments consisted of manual planting and manual control of weeds. Data on plant stand, obtained from Nsuta, Agona, Tepa and Begoro indicated that there was no significant difference between the jab planted and manually planted fields. Incidence of weeds was higher (score of 3) on plots where the weeds were controlled with a herbicide applied with the shield than on the manually weeded plots (score of 2). This, however, did not affect the number of cobs harvested and grain yield. Planting maize with the jab planter and weed control with the shield did not reduce maize yield compared with manual planting and weeding. Maize at the other locations could not cob, due to drought. Farmers who have labour constraints can therefore use these appliances. Almost all the farmers that participated in the demonstrations expressed interest in the shield and jab planter.
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Plate 9. A female farmer (extreme left) sowing maize with the jab planter during a demonstration at Begoro.
PLANT HEALTH
PLANT PATHOLOGY
Development of Strategies for the Management of Rice Yellow Mottle Virus in Ashanti Region. Research Team: J.N.L. Lamptey, R.K. Bam, A. Oppong and P. Acheampong
Collaborating Institutions: WARDA and MoFA
Source of funding: CIDA/FABS
Rice production on the continent is threatened by the yellow mottle disease caused by rice yellow mottle virus (RYMV), genus Sobemovirus. The virus is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa and is reported to be the most serious pathogen of irrigated and lowland rainfed rice in West and Central Africa cultivation systems (Ouma & Kalyango, 2008). In Ghana the disease has been observed in some rice growing areas including Aframso and Nobewam in the Ashanti region though there are no empirical data on losses due to this disease.
Objective:
To determine the prevalence of rice yellow mottle virus (RYMV) disease in the Ashanti region and to develop strategies to manage the disease.
Activity 1
Evaluation of some Rice Varieties for Tolerance/Resistance to RYMV in a Disease Hot Spot at Sokwae (Atwima Nwabiagya District).
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Summary of Progress
Six rice varieties (CRI-Bodie, CRI-Wakatsuki, CRI-Amankwatia, CRI-Sakai, Sikamo) - all CSIR-CRI released materials and Jasmine (widely cultivated by farmers) were evaluated for resistance/tolerance to RYMV, at Sokwae, which is a hot spot for the disease. Results of the disease assessment of the trial indicated that Sikamo, Sakai, Bodia and Amankwatia showed tolerance to RYMV under natural conditions while Jasmine showed moderate infection.
A second trial was conducted at the same location, with the same CRI materials and two farmer varieties (‘Asantemo fitaa’ and ‘Adwoa bolo’) as checks. Results of disease assessment showed that CRI-Wakatsuki, ‘Asantemo fitaa’ and ‘Sikamo’ showed tolerance to RYMV while the rest showed moderate tolerance to the disease. The disease pressure at the experimental site was generally low.
Evaluation of some Cassava Cultivars for Resistance to Major Diseases of Cassava
Research Team: J.N.L. Lamptey, J. Manu-Aduening, M.D. Quain, P.F. Ribeiro and R.N. Prempeh
Collaborating Institution: CIAT
Source of funding: WAAPP
Objectives
To determine the presence of diseases of economic importance, in Ghana and the sub- region, on some cassava genotypes
To constantly validate the disease status of previously released varieties as a means of determining their suitability for dissemination
Summary of progress
Sixteen varieties of cassava released by CSIR-CRI (10), CSIR-SARI (2), KNUST (2) and UCC (2) were planted at Fumesua (forest ecological zone) and Ejura (forest-transition) in May and June respectively to assesss their disease status. The varieties were: ‘Sika bankye’, ‘Ampong’, ‘Broni bankye’, ‘Otuhia’, ‘Essambankye’, ‘Doku duade’, ‘Bankyehemaa’, ‘Agbelifia’, ‘Afisiafi’ and ‘Abasafitaa’ (from CSIR-CRI), Bankyebotan and UCC bankye (from UCC), Tekbankye and Nkabom (from KNUST), Fil Indiakonia and Nyrikogba (from SARI). At three months after planting the improved varieties showed field tolerance/ resistance to the cassava mosaic disease. However since virus activity is usually low during the drier part of the year, more data would be collected during the wet season for comparison. Laboratory analysis would also be carried out to confirm the status of the varieties.
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West African Regional Consortium for IPM Excellence. Development of Comprehensive IPM package for Tomato in Ghana: Building upon and extending previous IPM-research.
Research Team: M. Osei, J.N.L. Lamptey, M.B. Mochiah, M.D. Quain, J.N. Berchie, G. Bolfrey-Arku, A. A. Dankyi, J. Haleegoah and D.F. Sombiri* (*MoFA)
Collaborating Institutions: University of California (USA) and MoFA
Source of funding: USAID (through Virginia Tech, USA).
Objective
To develop a comprehensive integrated pest management (IPM) package for tomato that is grown as cash crop in peri-urban and rural setting.
Activity 1
Serological detection of Tobacco mosaic tobamovirus (TMV) and Cucumber mosaic cucumovirus (CMV) on tomato in Ashanti, Brong-Ahafo and Upper East regions.
Summary of progress
Surveys were conducted in some tomato growing areas in three regions namely Ashanti region (Agogo and Akumadan), Brong-Ahafo region (Tuobodom and Tanoso) and Upper East region (Vea,Tono and Pwalugu) to ascertain the presence of TMV and CMV. These regions represented the Forest, Forest-transition and Guinea savanna zones of Ghana respectively.
Infected leaf samples were collected from plants showing symptoms, for serological diagnosis in the laboratory. In the Ashanti and Brong Ahafo regions, CMV was detected at all the locations surveyed while TMV was detected only at Tuobodom. Mixed infections were detected at Tuobodom. In the Upper East region both CMV and TMV were detected at Tono and Vea. Mixed infections were detected at the two locations. These results have shown how widespread the viruses are in the tomato growing areas.
Developing and Transforming Vegetable Technologies in Ghana: The Case of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
Research Team: M.K. Osei, J.N.L. Lamptey, K. Offei Bonsu, J.N. Berchie, B.M. Mochiah, K. Osei, A. Agyeman, E. Adu-Kwarteng, R.Thompson, C. Owusu Debrah, J. Gyau and L. Appiah
Collaborating Institutions: RDA- Horticultural Research Institute, South Korea, CSIR- PGRRI and CSIR-FRI
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Source of funding: RDA-KAFACI (South Korea).
Objectives:
. To assemble germplasm of tomatoes from South Korea, Burkina Faso, Taiwan and Ghana . To evaluate and characterize assembled germplasm for resistance to diseases and pests, yield and fruit quality . To re-affirm disease resistance in selected tomato cultivars using molecular markers . To perform crosses among the selected lines and some local tomato lines (F3 generations) . To introduce improved postharvest handling techniques to tomato farmers and other stakeholders
Summary of progress
Activity 1
Evaluation of Tomato Germplasm from South Korea, Burkina Faso, Taiwan and Ghana for Resistance/Tolerance to Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV)
A collection of 219 tomato accessions from Ghana (146), South Korea (46), Taiwan (16) and Burkina Faso (11) were assessed, alongside three checks, at Kwadaso (forest zone), for tolerance to the TYLCV disease. Disease assessment was done at 30, 45 and 60 days after transplanting (DAT). Out of the 219 accessions, 65 showed field tolerance/resistance to TYLCV. The 65 tolerant accessions were made up of five from Taiwan, 13 from Korea, five from Burkina Faso and 42 from Ghana. None of the checks showed field tolerance. Plants which were considered as tolerant to TYLCV would be further evaluated to confirm the earlier results.
Adapting Clonally Propagated Crops to Climatic and Commercial Change - Pathological Studies on the Breeder’s Plot
Research Team: E.L. Omenyo, J.N.L. Lamptey, F.M. Tetteh* and H. Asumadu (*CSIR-SRI)
Collaborating Institutions: CSIR-PGRRI and CIRAD
Source of funding: European Union
Objectives
To assemble and share resources of Taro from diverse gene pools. To promote international collaboration among breeders and farmers.
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To produce, by conventional and participatory breeding, new varieties of an underexploited crop with high agronomic and commercial potential.
Summary of Progress
Five each of local and exotic accessions of Taro were grown adjacent to a farmer’s field, at Nobewam, infected with Taro leaf blight. The farmer’s field served as a source of inoculum for the spread of the disease to the experimental plots. Disease incidence and severity were assessed five months after planting. Phytophthora colocasiae was isolated from all diseased leaf samples collected. Other diseases observed, with laboratory confirmation, were anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporoides, leaf spot caused by Cladosporium colocasiae and Cercospora leaf spot caused by Cercospora colocasiae. Other spots caused by Fusarium spp were also found. Dasheen mosaic virus was observed on a few accessions especially those of exotic origin but the infection was not severe. Most of the local accessions were also susceptible to fungal infection. Those that showed tolerance will be advanced for further evaluation.
ENTOMOLOGY
Integrated Pest Management in Groundnut
Research Team: M.B. Mochiah, I. Adama, J.Y. Asibuo, J.N.L. Lamptey, K. Osei and G. Bolfrey-Arku
Collaborating Institutions: CSIR-SRI, NCSU and MoFA
Source of funding: USAID Peanut Collaborative Research Support Programme (CRSP)
Objective
• To evaluate groundnut germplasm leading to the release of varieties that will be acceptable by groundnut growers.
Activity 1
Evaluation of selected groundnut lines for resistance to pests, weeds and diseases
Objectives
To evaluate selected groundnut lines for resistance to pests, weeds and diseases, and for inspection by national variety release committee for possible release. To transfer IPM technologies generated to farmers to enhance groundnut production.
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Summary of progress
Five groundnut lines (ICG (X) SM – 87057, RRR – ICGU 88709, RRR – MR – 8 – 16, F – MIX (X) ICG (FDRS) -20 -1 – 45 and GK 7 (High Oleic), selected from previous studies were evaluated at Fumesua (forest zone) and Ejura (forest/savannah transition zone). Adepa, an improved, rosette-resistant variety and Konkoma, a local cultivar, susceptible to pests and diseases were used as checks in the evaluation. Results showed that all the five lines compared favourably with Adepa in many aspects. Two of the lines were finally approved for official release.
Collection and Identification of Whitefly Biotypes from Tomato Growing Areas in Three Regions of Ghana Research Team: M.B. Mochiah, M.K. Osei, J.N.L. Lamptey, K. Osei, J.N. Berchie and G. Bolfrey-Arku
Collaborating Institutions: CSIR- SRI, MoFA, University of California, Davis, (USA), Virginia Tech, Fort Valley State University, USA and Ohio State University, USA.
Source of funding: USAID Integrated Pest Management (CRSP)
Objective
• To identify whitefly biotypes of tomato cropping systems in Ghana
Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) (Genn.) is a vector of the Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV) disease, a major tomato disease in Ghana. An understanding of the biotypes and their behavior will help in developing strategies to manage or control them.
Summary of progress
Samples of whiteflies were collected between May and September 2012 from some tomato growing areas, namely - Vea irrigation site at Bolgatanga, Tono irrigation site at Navrongo and Pwalugu (Upper East region); Agogo and Akomadan (Ashanti region); Tuobodom and Tanoso (Brong Ahafo region). The insects have been sent to Virginia Tech., USA, for molecular identification.
NEMATOLOGY
Evaluation of Yam Varieties for Nematode Resistance
Research Team: K. Osei, E. Otoo, A. Agyeman, Y. Danso, and J. Adomako
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Collaborating Institutions: IITA and CSIR-SARI
Source of funding: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Plant parasitic nematodes are a major constraint to yam production. The development of resistant crop varieties would provide an effective, healthy and economical method for managing the nematodes.
Objective
To identify sources of nematode resistance in yam genotypes obtained from IITA.
Summary of progress
Thirteen (13) yam genotypes obtained from IITA were planted for evaluation, in collaboration with 20 farmers each, at Ejura (Ashanti region), Atebubu and Kintampo (Brong Ahafo region). Soil samples collected from all three locations prior to the planting of yams were analysed and found to contain five nematode species namely Helicotylenchus multicintus > Pratylenchus coffeae > Meloidogyne spp. (juveniles) > Rotylenchulus reniformis > Tylenchulus semipenetrans in order of decreasing importance. The crops were yet to be harvested.
Reaction of Five Varieties of Tomato to Phyto-parasitic Nematodes Infection
Research Team: K. Osei, M. Osei, M. Mochiah and A. Agyeman
Collaborating Institution: MoFA Source of funding: USAID IPM (CRSP)
Objective To identify sources of nematode resistance in tomato varieties. Summary of progress Four tomato cultivars SHASTA, Heinz, OP-B155, OP-B149 obtained from the USA and a local check (Power Rhino) were planted for evaluation at four locations at Tanoso near Techiman (Brong Ahafo region) of Ghana where tomato is intensively cultivated. Analysis of soil samples collected from the plots before planting revealed the presence of four nematodes species namely Pratylenchus brachyurus > Meloidogyne spp. (juveniles) > Helicotylenchus multicintus > Rotylenchulus reniformis in order of decreasing abundance. The crops have been harvested and more data were being collected.
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Reaction of Ten Cowpea Germplasm to Meloidogyne incognita Infection Research Team: J. Adomako, H. Adu Dapaah, S. Addy, A. Agyeman and J. Sackey-Asante Collaborating Institution: Nil
Source of funding: AGRA
Objective:
To identify sources of resistance to M. incognita for incorporation into the cowpea breeding programme
Summary of progress
Potted seedlings (three weeks old) of ten cowpea germplasm were inoculated with three levels (0, 350 and 700) of M. incognita juveniles/pot, in a plant house at Fumesua. The cowpea germplasm was made up of Asontem, Asetenapa Videza, Adom, Asomdwee, Hewale, Nhyira, Tona, Padituya and ITK89KD-347-57. At the vegetative and harvesting stages of the cowpea, the levels of M. incognita infection and damage were assessed. Data collected indicated that three of the germplasm (Asontem, Asetenapa and Videza) showed resistance, two (Adom and Asomdwee) showed tolerance, while the remaining five were susceptible to M. incognita.
WEED SCIENCE
Development of Suitable Weed Control Strategies for Cassava-based Cropping Systems
Research Team: G. Bolfrey-Arku and J. Manu-Aduening
Root and tuber crops generally succumb to early weed interference because of their slow initial growth. Weed control, mostly done manually, absorbs about 40% of the total available farm labour which is often unavailable at critical times.
Objectives
To develop chemical weed control systems for cassava production To improve existing weed control practices through integration of different weed control practices Determine economic benefits and environmental implications of technologies To evaluate farmer perception of weed management strategies
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Activity 1
Evaluation of Pre-emergence Herbicides for Weed Control in Cassava Production
Trials were established at Fumesua and Wenchi in May 2010 with the following treatments:
1. Bellazine (atrazine + cyanazine) @ 1.5l/ha + 1 hand weeding (HW) 2. Bellazine (atrazine + cyanazine) @ 1l/ha + 1 HW 3. Diuron (Karmex) @ 0.75 g/l + 1 HW 4. Diuron @ 0.5 g/l + 1 HW 5. Hand weeding (3 times)
Preliminary results/observations:
There were initial injury symptoms on cassava in the Bellazine or Diuron treated plots but by 3 months after treatment most plants had recovered. Optimum frequency of weeding was two times for all herbicide treated plots and 3x for the hand weeded plots Initial weeding was due at 3 – 4 weeks after planting (WAP) for the manual weed control plots, while first weeding was delayed up to 6 - 8 WAP for herbicide treated plots.
Activity 2
Effect of Cassava Variety and Planting Distance (Density) on Weed Growth
Trials were set up at Fumesua, Wenchi and Aworowa with the following treatments:
Variety: Branching type (Bankyehema = V2) Non-branching type (Agbelefia = V1)
Planting distance/ arrangement: 1m x 1m (10,000 plants/ha = P2) 0.8m x 0.8m (15,625 plants/ha = P1)
Time of weeding: 3-week intervals (T1) 4-week intervals (T2) Observations so far:
Canopy closure was earlier on plots planted to Bankyehema compared to Agbelifia The canopy spread of Bankyehema was also wider than the canopy of Agbelifia (implying reduced light interception by weeds on the Bankyehemaa plots) Spacing did not seem to affect plant height
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Data have been collected on cassava sprouting, canopy spread, plant height and weed incidence. At the time of reporting, data were yet to be collected on number of roots per plant at harvest, average root weight, root yield per hectare and economic analysis of the data.
CLIMATE CHANGE
Climate Change Predictions in Sub-Saharan Africa: Impacts and Adaptations (ClimAfrica)
Research Team: R. Sagoe, A. Agyemang, P. Acheampong, G. Aflakpui*, S. Bredu** and B.O. Antwi*** (*Wa Polytechnic, **CSIR-FORIG, ***CSIR-SRI)
Collaborating Institutions: CSIR-SRI, CSIR-FORIG and Wa Polytechnic
Coordinating Instittution: Centro Euro-Mediterraneo per Cambiamenti Climatici Scarl (CMCC) of Italy
Source of funding: European Commission – FP7
Climafrica focuses on the development of climate change predictions for sub-Saharan Africa, quantify impacts and assess adaptation measures for identified countries in the sub region; employing an integrated working approach that involves nine European, eight African (West to the East of the sub-Sahara) and the FAO. CSIR- Crops Research Institute is responsible for the Ghana case study.
Specific objectives
Develop improved climate predictions on seasonal to decadal climatic scales relevant to sub-Saharan Africa Assess climate impacts in key sectors of livelihood and economy (water resources and agriculture) Evaluate the vulnerability of ecosystems and civil population to inter-annual variation and longer trends in climate Suggest and analyse new adaptation strategies that focus on local needs Develop a 10-year monitoring and forecasting warning system Analyse the economic impact of climate change on agriculture and water resources and the cost effectiveness of potential adaptation measures
Activities to achieve these objectives have been defined under six work packages (WP). WP 1 – 5 consider the entire sub-Saharan Africa. WP 6 has a country specific spatial scale. Models developed under WP 1 – 5 would be validated and detailed process analysis carried out under WP 6 (country case study).
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Ghana’s Case Study
The main aim is to provide data to feed models being developed under WP 1-5. CSIR- CRI is responsible for the Ghana case study under WP 6. Specifically the following objectives define activities for CSIR-CRI and its collaborating institutions:
Assess current physical, management and socio-economic drivers of agricultural practices, crop yield and water resources in the selected area Generate database on agricultural production, assimilation, phenology, water and carbon fluxes and drivers for modelling Characterize, evaluate and validate land use in terms of plant functions for eco- physiological models Develop innovative management options for environmental change using climate, crop and socio-economic models Analyse vulnerability of the study areas in the face of different scenarios Identify and select adaptation measures for current and future climate changes in collaboration with stakeholders
Summary of progress
The Ankasa watershed in the Ankasa forest reserve (Jomoro district, Western Region), was selected for the study in Ghana. Data were collected on the vegetation and soils of the Ankasa forest and some selected communities. Data on agricultural production, crop phenology and management for maize and cassava in the Western Region, were collected and used by WP3 to run a model to assess impact of climate change. The nature and exposure levels of the selected communities in the watershed were assessed using participatory mapping of historical climate events and mental modeling of climate change. Sensitivity levels of basic livelihood portfolio at household levels were also assessed. Values obtained were transformed into incidence and severity indices and a standardized risk index was calculated.
Three communities in the Jomoro district (Kwabre, Ankasa (new), Amokwasuazo) were selected for socio-economic analysis. Data collected showed that there were 79% male and 21% female (headed) households. The ages of household heads ranged from 24 to 75 years. Migrants constituted 71% of the population. Most households earned their livelihood basically from farming (crop and animal production), with only 25% of female and 76% of male household heads farming as a secondary occupation. Data were also collected on their marital, educational and health status. The study identified a gap in the communities’ knowledge or understanding of climate change, especially what climate change means and the causes of the change. The ability to adapt to changing climate, at household levels, depended on access to and control over land, money, and tools, low dependency ratio, good health, personal mobility, household entitlements, and secured housing in a safe place. These and others were listed as factors or solutions for a reduced vulnerability, in the communities, in future.
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TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER
Activities of the Dissemination of New Agricultural Technologies in Africa (DONATA) Project in Ghana
Focal Organization: CSIR-Crops Research Institute
Focal Point (Commodity): Cassava
Innovation Platform (IP) Facilitation Team: G. Bolfrey-Arku (Focal person), I. O. O. Ansah, J. Manu- Aduening, E. Osei-Adade*, Asare Baffour**, A. Anaman*, K. Amissah***, E. Aboagye**** and J. Adu
(*MoFA, Wenchi, **AAWID, ***Ayigbe IP, ****PPRSD)
Collaborating Institutions: RTIMP, MoFA and CSIR- BRRI
Source of funding: CORAF (thro’ FARA)
Specific objectives:
Encourage peer learning among actors on the platform Strengthen linkages within and among established platforms Scale-out and up of adapted technologies through the media Reinforce actors’ capacity in adopting some selected technologies Sensitize institutions/organizations about the IAR4D concept Introduce pozzolana cement for construction
Summary of progress
A participatory rural appraisal, focus group discussion and interviews were conducted among cassava farmers in the Wenchi municipality (in the Brong Ahafo Region) to identify challenges, opportunities and entry points for new entrants to the innovation platform (IP). Problems identified were declining soil fertility, ineffective weed control and land preparation practices, limited access to planting materials of improved varieties, drudgery in cassava processing and poor marketing of produce and products,.
An additional platform was consequently created in addition to four existing ones. Prioritized constraint(s) of new entrants were matched to the appropriate IP and appropriate technologies were adapted to address the constraints. Workshops were organized for actors on the platforms, and other stakeholders in the cassava chain (producers, processors, marketers, vendors, transporters, etc) within the Wenchi municipality to mobilize new actors to the platform. Farmer-led field visits/tours were organized to enable stakeholders to familiarize themselves with activities within and among platforms. Farmers were taken through hands-on-practice in rapid multiplication of healthy cassava planting materials (3-node stem cutting and pre-sprouting techniques). Local artisans and platform actors were trained in the use of pozzolana cement (a product by CSIR-BRRI) to construct a processing centre. Six capacity building fora, on different themes, were organized for stakeholders -mostly farmers. Participation ranged from 13 to 69 at the different fora. The media assisted in disseminating the adapted technologies through the local radio (Royals FM) station.
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Recorded achievements included the following:
Five major IPTA’s have been established for a total of 103 stakeholders. Farmers have learnt the use of the correct nozzle and a sighting pole for herbicide application for efficient glyphosate application. The use of correct herbicide nozzle has since increased from 29% to 100%. It has been demonstrated to farmers that, planting cassava in lines/rows can increase plant population by 47% on the same piece of land. Ninety (90) farmers had adopted the 3-node stem cutting technology for rapid multiplication of healthy planting materials. • Eleven (11) farmers had cropped 7.8 ha of Bankyehemaa; another farmer had cropped 0.4 ha of IFAD varieties • Sensitized media and incorporated 2 national and 1 local radio stations as partners to disseminate DONATA activities • Planting materials of improved varieties had been disseminated to 111 indirect beneficiaries. • All the spraying gangs who were trained under the DONATA programme had begun to use Personal Protective Equipment during spraying. • An improved processing centre, established under the programme was 80% completed. • A local artisan had completed the fabrication of a pressing and grating machine at a cost of $1379.7 for a gari processing group at Ayigbe town. • To encourage ownership (sustainability) after the project, the actors, through regular sensitization, have made personal contributions worth $898.4 towards the building of the processing center.
Farmer Field Fora
A. Farmer Field Fora (FFF) is an innovation designed by RTIMP to disseminate improved production technologies for root and tuber crops through active farmer participation. A Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) was carried out in 44 communities in 19 districts. A total of 1,911 farmers (995 men and 916 women) were involved in the PRA. Farmers’ cassava production constraints and needs were identified. A list of key researchable constraints and thematic areas was prepared for each community. Almost all the communities mentioned infestation of millipedes and inaccessibility to improved varieties as major constraints.
B. Demonstration fields of cassava, yam and cocoyam were established at Hiawoanwu and Bissiw in the Ejura Sekyedumase district and in four communities in the Asante Akim North district. FFF cassava fields planted in 2011 were harvested between May and September 2012. At Nkawie, the farmers boiled some roots from the different plots to assess the effect of fertilizer on the poundability of the different cassava varieties. The test showed no adverse effect of fertilizer on the poundability of varieties.
C. Improved technologies for groundnut production were disseminated to farmers in the Drobonso district (Ashanti region) and Nkwantanang, Kwahu district (Eastern region).
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Groundnut fields of selected farmers in both regions were visited and assessed with other farmers. Recommended practices (including site selection, land preparation, germination test, row planting, use of appropriate planting distance and weed management) were discussed. Seeds of the improved lines were planted in one of the farmers’ field to be used as a demonstration field and also as a multiplication plot to produce more seeds for distribution to the farmers.
Farmer Field School
Three Farmer Field Schools (FFS) were organized, at Sokwae, with forty (40) farmers and eight (8) MoFA Extension workers from the Atwima-Nwabiagya and Ahafo-Ano South districts in attendance. The objective was to explain to the farmers how to manage the RYMV disease. The farmers were advised to cultivate improved varieties ‘Sikamo’ and ‘Amankwatia’ which are tolerant to the RYMV disease, high yielding and have good cooking qualities. They were also encouraged to use the ‘Sawah’ technology for rice cultivation because it has been observed that the technology helps to reduce incidence of RYMV in the field.
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ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
STAFF MATTERS
Appointments
The CSIR approved of the following appointments:
Dr. J.N.L. Lamptey, a Principal Research Scientist, was appointed as the Deputy Director of the Institute with effect from 16th April, 2012.
The under-listed staff were also appointed with effect from 15th October, 2012:
Name Grade Division / Unit
1. Victor A. Amankwah RS BSFS (Tissue Culture) 2. Henry Akrofi Doku RS BSFS (Biotechnology) 3. Atta Kwasi Aidoo Snr. RS Plant Health (Pathology) 4. Natson Eyram Amengor RS RCM & Socio-economics 5. Erasmus N.Tetteh RS RCM & Socio-economics (Aiyinase Station) 6. Emmanuel Adjei Asamoah RS CSSS (CID) 7. Isaac Osei-Bonsu RS Horticulture 8. Matilda Frimpong STO Plant Health (Entomology) 9. Esther Agyemang Marfo STO “ (Pathology) 10. Stephen Arthur STO “ (Weed Science) 11. Aisha Karim STO RCM & Socio-economics 12. Getty Afukaar STO RCM & Socio-economics 13. Maxwell Lamptey STO Legumes & Oil seeds 14. Afua Gyaamah Gyima STO Legumes & Oil seeds 15. William Lelabi Kota STO Cereals (Rice) 16. Samuel Tandoh STO Cereals (Rice) 17. Agnes Achiaa Aboagye STO BSFS (Tissue Culture) 18. Gertrude Osei-Diko STO “ “ 19. Daniel K.Cudjoe STO “ “ 20. Lily Naa Adoley Allotey STO BSFS (Biotechnology) 21. Agnes Nimo Bosompem STO “ “ 22. Alberta Nsenkyire TO Horticulture 23. Franklin Bosompem Denkyira TO Legumes & Oil seeds 24. Elizabeth Norkor Lartey TO Cereals (Rice) 25. Stephen Oware Kunkumah TO Cereals (Maize) 26. Eric Baffoe TO Cereals- (Maize)-Ejura Station 27. Joyce M. Gbarinaa TO BSFS (Seed Technology) 28. Bismark Abugri TO Plant Health (Nematology)
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29. Prince Opoku TO Root &Tuber Crops 30. Kwadwo Alhassan TO Root & Tuber Crops 31. Maxwell Kwodane TO Farm Management
Thirty (30) junior members of staff made up of technicians, field workers, security men and a driver were also appointed.
Promotions
The CSIR approved of the promotions of the under-listed members of staff with effect from January 1, 2011:
Name From To
1. Dr. J. N .L. Lamptey Snr. Res. Sci. Prin. Res. Sci. 2. S. Obeng-Antwi Prin.Tech. Officer Chief Tech. Officer 3. Akye-Yuure David P.T.O C.T.O 4. Abugbilla A. Edward P.T.O C.T.O 5. Zakariah Atchule P.T.O C.T.O 6. Adaabre C. K. Atta P.T.O C.T.O 7. Adam Haruna P.T.O C.T.O 8. Thomas K. Nkrumah P.T.O C.T.O 9. Eric Aduko Snr. Lib. Asst. Prin. Lib. Asst. 10. A. J. A. Awanzam P.T.O C.T.O 11. Nanaebo Blankson P.T.O C.T.O 12. Apraku Micah Offei P.T.O C.T.O 13. John Amoako Prin. Works Sup’t Chief Works Sup’t 14. John K. Fordjour T.O S.T.O 15. Francis Donkor T.O S.T.O 16. Dickson Asiamah T.O S.T.O 17. Richard O. Amankwah A.F.M S.A.F.M
Ten (10) junior members of staff and fifty (50) monthly- rated employees were also promoted with effect from January 1, 2011.
Dr. J. Y. Asibuo was promoted from Research Scientist to Senior Research Scientist, effective July 1, 2011.
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Up-grading
The following members of staff were up-graded:
Name From To Effective Date
1. Jonas Osei Adu P. T. O R.S February 1, 2010 2. Joseph Gyau STA PTO July 29, 2010 3. Paul Marno T.O P.T.O July 29, 2010 4. Mrs. Cynthia Darko S.T.A P.T.O July 29, 2010 5. Mark Anti Marketing Assistant Prin. Mkting Asst. Sept. 1, 2010 6. Bright B. Peprah P. T. O. R.S July 31, 2011
Leave Without Pay
Dr. Ken Okwae Fening, a Research Scientist, proceeded on leave without pay in April, 2012.
Resumption of Duty
The under-listed members of staff resumed duty after completing their training programmes. Name Programme Date of Resumption
Mary Nuako Bandoh M.Phil. (Agric. Extension) January 6, 2012 Adofo Kwadwo PhD (Plant Breeding) February 1, 2012 Maxwell A. Darko PhD (Plant Breeding) November 14,2012
Retirements
The under-listed members of staff retired during the year.
Name Grade Effective Date
1. Peter Adusei Akowuah Research Scientist January 12, 2012 2. Samuel Amfo Assist. Farm Manager January 25, 2012 3. Richard Kanda Assist. Farm Manager February 28, 2012 4. Rebecca Adoma Overseer April 1, 2012 5. Manfred K. Awalime Chief Tech Officer April 4, 2012 6. S. Obeng Ayeh Prin. Tech Officer April 19, 2012 7. Augustine Gyimbilla Abu Assist. Farm Manager July 21, 2012 8. Samuel Nyarko Chief Tech. Officer August 25, 2012 9. Richard Bayor Snr. Tech. Officer August 28, 2012 10. Joseph K Adom Assist. Transport Officer October 10, 2012 11. Anane Yeboah Snr. Security Assist October 20, 2012 12. Offeh-Bediako Kyeretwie Chief Tech. Officer October 23, 2012
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13. Eric Fakor Avah (Rev.) Chief Tech. Officer November 1, 2012. 14. Albert Berdjour Snr. Stores Sup’t November 21, 2012 15. Prosper Y. Amegbor Snr. Security Asst. December 12, 2012 16. John Baidoo Assist Farm Manager December 20, 2012
Fifteen (15) junior members of staff also proceeded on compulsory retirement.
Deaths
The following members of staff passed away during the year:
Name Grade Station/Division Date
1. N. B. Basilide Acct. Asst Accounts May 17, 2012 2. Thomas Addai Asst. Over II BSFS June 25, 2012 3. Bawa Builsa Asst Over I Ejura August 13, 2012 4. Awudu Fuseni Foreman Transport October 29, 2012
AWARDS
Dr. Stella A. Ennin, a Chief Research Scientist, won the Ghana Women of Excellence Award for 2012 at a ceremony organized by the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs. Mr. Patterson Osei-Bonsu, a Research Scientist, was honoured by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva, for his creativity and innovations.
CONFERENCES/WORKSHOPS
Some members of staff attended various conferences and workshops during the year as presented below:
International
Drs. Stella A. Ennin and J.N. Berchie: Training Session on IAR4D in Bamako, Mali. Jan. 16 – 20, 2012.
Mr. I.O.O. Ansah: Workshop on Sweetpotato Support Platform at IITA, Nigeria. Jan. 24 – 25, 2012.
Mr. M. B. Ewool: Harvest Plus Team Meeting; Lusaka, Zambia. March 21 – 30, 2012.
Dr. Stella A. Ennin: Workshop on Monitoring and Evaluation for Managers and M&E Officers; Cotonou, Benin. March 26 – 30, 2012.
Dr. Grace Bolfrey Arku and Mr. I.O.O. Ansah: Workshop on IAR4D Innovation System; Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. June 20-24, 2012.
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Mr. M.K. Osei and Dr. M. B. Mochiah: Research and Management of insect-transmitted virus diseases in vegetables in the tropics and sub tropics; Coimbatore, India. July 10-13, 2012.
Dr. Hans Adu-Dapaah: The modern and visionary Africa Plant Breeder Conference, Nairobi, Kenya. July 23– 25, 2012.
Mr. C. Afriyie-Debrah: Environmental Biosafety Issues and Best Ppractices; Michigan State University, (USA). August 5 -10, 2012
Mr. K. Adofo: Modern breeding techniques for Improvement of Sweetpotato, Ghent University, Belgium. August 20 -31, 2012.
Mr. S. Yeboah: Food Systems: from Agronomy to Human Health on neglected and under-utilized species of plants; Cotonou, Benin. Sept. 3 – 7, 2012.
Mrs. Evelyn Adu-Kwarteng: Training Programme on New Infra-Red Reflectance Spectroscope (NIRS), Maputo, Mozambique. Sept. 5 – 7, 2012.
Dr. Hans Adu-Dapaah: International Union for Projection of new Varieties of Plants (UPOV), Geneva, Switzerland. Oct. 28 –Nov. 3, 2012.
Mrs. Adelaide Agyeman: Conference on Modeling Climate Change Impacts on Water and Crops; Alghevo, Italy. Nov. 5 -9, 2012.
Mr. Hillary Mireku: Plant Genetics Research and Seed Policy on Conversation and Use, Jeypore, India. Oct. 29 –Nov. 16, 2012.
Mr. I.O.O. Ansah: National Agricultural Technology Dissemination programme, Uganda. Nov. 23 – 26, 2012.
Dr. Joe Manu-Aduening: Joined a World Bank Mission to East Africa Agricultural Productivity Programme, Uganda. Nov. 26 – 27, 2012.
Dr. Joseph Nketiah Berchie: Bambara Groundnut International Stakeholders Workshop, University of Nottingham, Malaysia. Dec. 11 -12, 2012.
Dr. Emmanual Otoo: Regional Workshop on WAAPP activities on dry cereals and related crops, Senegal. Dec. 11 – 13, 2012.
Dr. Regina Sagoe: Workshop on “Transformative change: the role of responsibility solidarity and climate science, policy and public discourse, Oslo, Norway. 12th – 16th Dec. 2012.
Dr. Stella A. Ennin: Training workshop on “Institutionalizing IAR4D-Innovation Systems in the WAAPP skills enhance of actors of Innovation Platform in value chains, Dakar, Senegal. Dec. 17 – 21, 2012.
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Local
Dr. Regina Sagoe: Workshop on Climate Change in Africa; at Ramada Beach Hotel, Nungua, Accra. Jan. 15 – 20, 2012.
Dr. Emmanuel Otoo: Workshop on “Private sector led strategy for development in the yam industry and associated farming systems”, CSIR, Head Office, Accra. March 15 -16, 2012
Mr. Shadrack Amponsah: Information Literacy Workshop for CSIR Scientists, CSIR-INSTI Conference Room, Accra. March 26 -30, 2012.
Mr. Martin Tengan: Planning workshop on “Sustainable Intensification of cereal-based farming Systems in the Sudano-Sahelian zone of West Africa, Tamale. March 29, 2012.
Gender Awareness and Sensitization Workshop for Mainstreaming Gender in Agricultural Research and Teaching Environment
CORAF/SCAIN sponsored a workshop at CSIR-CRI, Fumesua, to develop a gender action plan for workers at KNUST-CANR and CSIR-CRI. The purpose of the (sensitization and awareness) workshop was to facilitate the empowerment of vulnerable men and women in the agricultural research and teaching environment. After the workshop, two working groups were formed to develop a joint action plan and implement activities proposed in the action plan.
SEMINARS
Seminars were organized fortnightly at the Institute. Some of the topics presented and the speakers were:
i. Exploring the potentials of banana sap as a dye for the Adinkra Industry in Ghana (by Mr. B. M. Dzomeku, Senior Research Scientist).
ii. Ins and Outs of Scientific Publication in a Research Journal (by Dr. J. N. Asafu-Agyei, Chief Research Scientist and retired Director of CSIR-CRI)
iii. Lapses identified by the CSIR Appointments and Promotions Panel in Senior Members’ Applications for Promotion (by Dr. J. R. Cobbinah, retired Director, CSIR-FORIG)
iv. Enhancing the nutrient-rich Yam Bean (Pachyrhizus sp) to improve food quality and availability and the sustainability of farming systems in Central and West Africa (by Dr. Silver Tumwegamire, CIP, Uganda).
v. Awareness creation on research ethics (by Mr. Okyere Boateng, School of Public Health, Accra)
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VISITORS
Visitors to the Institute included the following:
Catherine Basaga, Senior Researcher, International Food Policy Research Institute, and E. Ekow Asmah, Economist, University of Cape Coast, to do adoption and impact studies with CSIR-CRI scientists. March 2012.
Rebecca Gromet, Michigan State Univ, USA; Gloria Essilfie, University of Ghana and S. E. Timpo NEPAD Agency came to inspect facilities at the Institute. April 2012.
Katie Ariane and Sarah Jillian, NGO in Canada, came on research inception visit. May 2012.
Peter Trewonard, Tom Carr, Ferton Sanels, Samson Konlar and Kim Kim Yee all from USAID, Ghana, came on familiarization visit. June 2012.
Belen Jerome, Konkobo / Yameogo Charlotte, Somda Jean-Celestin and Toe Omar from INERA, Burkina Faso, visited the Sweetpotato improvement programme at the Institute. August 2013.
Drs. David Jordan and Rick Brandenburg from North Carolina State University, USA, visited CSIR-CRI on August 3-9, 2012 and September 22 to 26, 2012, respectively. They interacted with scientists on the USAID Peanut Collaborative Research Support Programme and visited collaborating farmers’ fields at Drobonso district (Ashanti region) and Nkwantanang, Kwahu (Eastern region).
Aifa F. Niane (World Bank office Senegal), Aparajita Goyal (World Bank office Washington DC), K. Osman Gyasi (World Bank office, Ghana) and Azara Ali-Mamshie (National WAAPP Coordinator, Ghana) came on WAAPP Implementation Support Mission. September, 2012.
Elvis Fraser and Richard Caldwell from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, USA, came on site visit. October, 2012.
Rowland Chiwa (CIAT-Malawi), Wanjiku Chiuri (CIAT-Kigali, Rwanda), Rubyogo, Jean-Claude (CIAT-Tanzania) visited the Bean Research Fields. November, 2012.
TRAINING
Vacation training
Two foreign students from Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute and Martin-Luther-Universitat, Germany, and seventeen (17) others from UEW (Mampong), UCC, KNUST, UDS and other tertiary Institutions in the country undertook their vacation practical training at the Institute.
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Short courses
Dr. K. Obeng-Antwi attended a Training Course on Contemporary Approach to Generic Resources Conservation and Use in Netherlands. 16th April –10th May 2012.
Mr. Bright B. Peprah attended a training course in Integrated Breeding in Nijmegen, Netherlands. 20th- 24th June 2012.
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FINANCIAL REPORT
INCOME 2012 2011 Amount (GH₵) Amount (GH₵) Recurrent Grant 13,522,839 11,036,149 Sale of Produce 167,585 213,628 13,690,424 11,249,777
No Releases were made for Service and Investment Activities
EXPENDITURE 2012 2011 Amount (GH₵) Amount (GH₵) Personnel Emolument 12,356,503 9,551,219 General Administration 446613 422,482 Travel and Transport 538,983 346,976 Repairs and Maintenance 140,265 172,702 Financial Charges 17,021 43,580 Research Expenses 66,790 113,165 13,566,175 10,650,124
SURPLUS 124,249 599,653
DONOR-FUNDED PROJECTS (CEDIS) - 816,272.00
DONOR-FUNDED PROJECTS (DOLLARS) - 824,748.00
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APPENDIX I
PUBLICATIONS
Refereed Journal Papers
Acheampong, L. D. and Dzandu, M. D., (2012) Access to and use of information centres among Scientists at CSIR-Crops Research Institute, Kumasi, Ghana. Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal). Paper 806. http://digitalcommons.unl.edu/libphilprac/806
Acheampong, P.P. (2012). Household food security in Ghana: the role of root and tuber crops .Ghana Journal of Agricultural Science 45; 3-9.
Acheampong, P. P., Braimah, H., Ankomah-Danso, A. and Mochiah, M.B. (2012). Consumers Behaviours and Attitudes towards Safe Vegetable Production in Ghana: A Case Study of the Cities of Kumasi and Cape Coast. Science Journal of Agricultural Research and Management, Volume 2012, Article ID sjarm-109, 11 Pages; 2012. doi:10.7237/sjarm/109
Acheampong, P.P., Owusu,V., Gyiele, N., Asante, B.O. and Osei- Adu, J. (2012). Cassava Variety Attribute Preferences in Ashanti, Brong Ahafo and Eastern Regions of Ghana. Ghana Journal of Agricultural Science 45; 21-29.
Agyeman, A., Parkes, E.O. and Peprah, B.B. (2012). Yield Performance of Cassava Genotypes across Environments in Southern Ghana. Journal of Agricultural Science: In Press. 19pp.
Agyeman, K., Afuakwa, J. J., Owusu Danquah, E. and Asubonteng, K. O. (2012). Improving soil fertility for maize (Zea mays L.) production using inorganic and organic fertilizer: A case of N: P: K 15: 15: 15 and biomass of Agroforestry trees; South Asian Journal of Experimental Biology (SAJEB), India. Vol.2 Issue 1 pp. 5-11.
Amponsah, S. K., Oteng-Darko, P. and Kumi, F. (2012). Potential and constraints of agricultural mechanisation in Ghana – A review. International Agricultural Engineering Journal, 21(2): 38 - 43.
Aubyn, A., Berthe, A., Sidibe, A., Niangaly, A. (2012) Influence of sucrose on in vitro potato (Solanum tuberosum) microtuber production. Journal of Horticulture and Biotechnology 35:106-108
Bart-Plange, A., Addo, A., Amponsah, S. K., Ampah, J. (2012). Effect of Moisture, Bulk Density and Temperature on Thermal Conductivity of Ground Cocoa Beans and Ground Sheanut Kernels. Global Journal of Science Frontier Research, Vol. 12-D (8) Ver. 1, pp 5.
Berchie, J.N., Opoku, M., Adu-Dapaah, H., Agyemang, A., Sarkodie-Addo, J. Asare, E., Addo, J. and Akuffo, H. (2012) Evaluation of five bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea (L) Verdc.) landraces to heat and drought stress at Tono-Navrongo, Upper East Region of Ghana. African Journal of Agricultural Research 7 (2) 250-256.
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Boateng, M., Okai, D.B., Salifu, A. R. S. and Ewool, M. B. (2012). A Comparative Study of Two Normal and Two Quality Protein Maize Varieties - Effects on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Albino Rats. J Anim. Sci. Adv. 2012, 2 (9):787-792.
Issaka, R. N., Senayah, J. K., Andoh Mansah, J. K. and Ennin, S. A. (2012). Assessment of Fertility Status of Soils Supporting Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Cultivation in Western and Central Regions of Ghana, West Africa. Journal of Applied Ecology, 2012. Vol. 20 (1):47-56
Lamptey, J.N.L., Quain, M., Okyere, E.O., Ribeiro, P.F., Prempeh, R. and Abrokwa, L. (2012). Effects of cassava mosaic disease on successive ratooning of some cassava cultivars in Ghana. Ghana Journal of Agricultural Science, 45, 11-19.
Obeng-Antwi, K., P. Craufurd, A. Menkir, Ellis, R.H. and Sallah. P.Y.K. (2012) Phenotypic Diversity in Maize Landraces in Ghana. International Journal of Science and Advanced Technology Vol. 2, No. 5, 39- 70.
Osei, K., Osei, M.K., Mochiah, M.B., Lamptey, J.N.L., Bolfrey-Arku, G. and Berchie, J.N. (2012). Plant parasitic nematodes associated with tomato in Ghana. Nematologia Mediterranea Journal 40: 33-37.
Osei, M.K., Akromah, R., Lamptey, J.N.L. and Quain, M.D. (2012). Phenotypic and Molecular Screening of Some Tomato Germplasm for Resistance to TYLCV Disease in Ghana (2012). African Journal of Agricultural Research 7: 4675-4684.
Oteng-Darko, P., Kyei-Baffour, N. and Ofori, E. (2012). Simulating Rice Yields under Climate Change Scenarios using the CERES-Rice Model. African Crop Science Journal, 20(2): 347-354. Uganda http://www.ajol.info/index.php/acsj/article/view/81782
Owusu Danquah, E. Akromah, R., Quashie-Sam, S. J., Oduro, W., Falk, D., Thevathasan, N. V. and Gordon, A. M. (2012). The Genetic Diversity of Jatropha curcas Germplasm in Ghana as Revealed by RAPD Primers. Agroforestry System (2012) 86:443-450, Springer. Online: DOI: 10.1007/s10457-012- 9488-6
Polycarp, D., Afoakwa, E. O., Budu, A. S. and Otoo, E. (2012). Characterization of chemical composition and anti-nutritional factors in seven species within the Ghanaian yam (Dioscorea) germplasm. International Food Research Journal 19 (3): 985-992 (2012).
Salifu, A. R. S., Okai, D.B. and Ewool, M. B. (2012). A Comparative Study of Local Ghanaian Maize, Imported Yellow Maize and Two New Quality Protein Maize (QPM) Varieties - Etubi and Golden Jubilee- Effects on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Pigs. Online J. Anim. Feed Res., 2 (3): 218- 223.
Tengan, K.M.L., Obeng-Antwi, K. and Akromah, R.(2012) Genetic variances, heritability, and correlation studies on selected phenotypic traits in a backcross breeding program involving normal and opaque-2 maize. Agriculture and Biology Journal of North America. Available on DOI: 10.5251/abjna.2012.3.7.287.291.
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Conference Papers
Amankwaah, V.A., Akromah, R., Prempeh, R. and Carey, E.E. (2012). Phenotypic and Molecular Characterization of released sweetpotato varieties and Pathogen-tested putative ramets in Ghana. Paper presented at the16th International Symposium of the International Society for Root Crops. University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (UNAAB), Ogun State, Nigeria. 23rd to 28th September 2012.
Braimah, H., Anno-Nyako, F. O., Mintah, P., Nkansah, G.O. and Nutsugah, S.K. (2012). Mango Production in Ghana. In : Sudha G. Valavi, K. Rajmohan, J.N. Govil, K.V. Peter and George Thottappilly (Eds). Mango (Vol. 2) Cultivation in Different Countries. Studium Press LLC, Houston, USA, pp. 231 – 246.
Braimah, H., Issa, U.S., Kingsley, O., Manu-Aduening, J., Ankomah, A. A. and Mochiah, M.B. (2012). Effects of intercropping cassava with plantain in the forest region of Ghana on the populations and damage caused by pests of the two crops. . Paper presented at the 16th International Symposium, International Society for Tropical Root Crops, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria, 23rd – 28th September, 2012.
Ennin, S. A., Otoo, E, Isaaka, R. N., Acheampong, P. P., Numafo, M. and Owusu Danquah, E. (2012). Mechanization, Fertilization and Staking Options for Environmentally Sound Yam Production. Paper presented at the 16th International Symposium of the International Society for Tuber & Root Crops (ISTRC). University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (UNAAB), Ogun State, Nigeria. 23rd to 28th September 2012.
Fening,K.O., Adama, I., Mochiah, M.B., Billah, M.K., Braimah, H, Owusu-Akyaw, M., and Manu- Aduening, J.A., Arku-Bolfrey, G., Osei-Adu, J. and Obosu Ekyem, S. (2012). Managing Millipedes Infestation on Cassava and Cocoyam in Western region of Ghana. Paper presented at the 16th Triennial Symposium, International Society for Tropical Root Crops, University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria, 23rd – 28th September, 2012
Quain, M., Asibuo, J.Y., Thompson, R. and Parkes, E.Y. (2012). Establishment of Functional Biotechnology Laboratories in Developing Countries. Biotechnology - Molecular Studies and Novel Applications for Improved Quality of Human Life. ISBN, 979-953-307-738-2.
Tamo, M., Srinivasan, R.,Dannon, E., Agboton, C., Datinon, B., Dabire, C., Baoua, I., Ba, M., Haruna, B., and Pittendrigh, B. (2012). Innovative Research along the Cowpea Value Chain. In: O. Boukar, O Coulibaly, C.A. Fatokun, K. Kopez, M. Tamò Eds., Proceedings of the Fifth World Cowpea Conference on Improving Livelihoods in Cowpea Value chain through advancement in Science: 27th September – 1 October, 2010, Saly, Senegal
Thompson, R., Quain, M., Amankwaah, V., Afriyie – Debrah, C., Carey, E.E. (2012). Development of an Informative Set of Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) Markers for Sweetpotato Fingerprinting and Diversity Assessment in the West African Sub-region. Paper presented at the16th International Symposium of the International Society for Root Crops. University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (UNAAB), Ogun State, Nigeria. 23rd to 28th September 2012.
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APPENDIX II
SENIOR STAFF LIST AS AT DECEMBER 2012
DIRECTOR
Hans Adu-Dapaah PhD (Plant Breeding), Univ. of Ibadan, Nigeria. 1989-CRS
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
Joseph Nii Lante Lamptey PhD (Virology), Univ. of Reading, UK, 1996 - PRS
ROOT AND TUBER CROPS
Emmanuel Otoo PhD (Plant Breeding), KNUST, - SRS J.N. Asafu-Agyei PhD (Crop science), UoG, 1994 - CRS Joseph Manu-Aduening PhD (Plant Breeding), Univ. of Greenwich, UK. 2005 - SRS Regina Sagoe PhD (Population Studies), UoG. 2010 - SRS Emmanuel L. Omenyo MPhil. (Crop Sci. / Pl. Breeding), UCC, 1997 - RS *Kwadwo Adofo MSc. (Agronomy), UCC, 2004 - RS Yaw Danso MSc (Agronomy/ Pl. Breeding), KNUST, 2010 - RS Peter Appiah Danquah MPhil. (Crop Science), UoG, 2011 - RS Bright Boakye Peprah MPhil (Plant Breeding), UoG.2011 - RS W. Amoabeng Blankson BSc. (Agric.),UCC, 2006 - ARS Asamoah Obeng Nyarko Dip. (Gen. Agric), UoG. 1991 - CTO Joseph Esuman K. Awoodzie Dip. (Gen. Agric.), UoG. 1993 - CTO Edem Lotsu Dip. (Gen. Agric.),UST, 1996 - CTO Oswald Ohene Gyan Dip. (Gen. Agric.), UoG. 1993 - CTO Nanaebo Blankson Dip. (Gen. Agric.), UoG. 1995 - PTO Cynthia Oppong Darko B.Ed. (Agric), UEW (Mampong), 2011 - PTO *Habbibah Aggrey Dip. (Gen. Agric.), UoG. 2005 - STO Luke Opoku Amankwah Dip.(Gen. Agric.), UoG, 2006 - TO Irene Dufie Cert. in Agric (ATC), 2004 - TO Prince Opoku Dip. (Gen. Agric.), Kwadaso Agric. College, 2011 - TO Kwadwo Alhassan Dip. (Gen. Agric.), Kwadaso Agric. College, 2011 - TO
CEREALS
Maize Programme
Kwadwo Obeng Antwi PhD. (Plant Breeding), Univ. of Reading, UK, 2008 -SRS Manfred B. Ewool MSc. (Plant Breeding), KNUST, 2004, - RS Martin Luther Tengan MSc. (Agronomy), KNUST, 2010 - RS
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Frank Coffie Danso BSc . (Agric.) , KNUST, 1999 - ARS Robert Kankam Cert. in (Plant Breeding), CIMMYT, Mexico - CTO Joseph K. Amponsah BSc. (Agric), KNUST, 2008 - PTO C.K.A. Adaabre Cert. in Agric (ATC), CIMMYT Cert. -PTO E. Abugbila Cert. in Agric. (ATC) -PTO Stephen Oware Kunkumah Dip. (Gen. Agric.), Methodist Univ. College, 2011 - TO Eric Baffoe Dip. (Gen. Agric.), Kwadaso Agric. College, 2011 - TO
Rice Programme
Raphael K. Bam M.Phil. (Agronomy), UoG. 1996 - SRS Paul Kofi A. Dartey Ph.D (Plant Breeding), Liverpool Univ., UK. 1993 - RS Ebenezer Annan-Afful PhD (Soil Fert. and Plant Nutrition),Tottori Univ., Japan, 2004. - RS
George Kwasi Acheampong M.Phil (Weed Sci.),KNUST, 2001 - RS Maxwell Darko Asante MSc (Agronomy), KNUST, 2004. - RS William Lelabi Kota BSc.(General Agric.), UCC, 2008 - STO Samuel Tandoh BSc. (Gen. Agric.), KNUST, 2011 - STO Sober E. Boadu Dip. (Tropical Agric.), KITA/MoFA. 1995 -STO Vida Amuzu Cert. in Agric. (ATC), 1998 -STO Isaac Owusu Konadu Cert. in Agric. (ATC) 1997 - STO Phyllis Aculey Dip. (Crop Prodn.) UoG. 2007 - TO Elizabeth Norkor Lartey Dip. (Gen. Agric.) Kwadaso Agric. College, 2011 - TO
LEGUMES AND OIL SEEDS
Stephen Amoah PhD (Plant Sciences), Rothamsted Research & Univ. of Reading, UK, 2010 - RS Sylvester Addy MSc. (Plant, Soil & Environmental Science), North Carolina State Univ., USA, 2007. - RS James Yaw Asibuo PhD. (Agronomy), KNUST, Ghana, 2008 - RS
K. Adjei-Bediako BSc. (Agric), KNUST, Ghana, 1999 - RS Osei Hyeaman Dip. (Gen. Agric) UST) 1980 - CTO Michael Adu Dip. Agric – 1987 CTO Isaac K. Buadee GCE (Adv. Level) 1978 - CTO Joseph Donkor Dip (Gen. Agric.), UoG. 1998 - CTO Victoria Larweh BSc. (Agric) UCC, Ghana. 2010 - PTO Paul Manor B.Ed. (Agric), UEW (Mampong).2011 - PTO Maxwell Lamptey BSc (Agric), UCC, 2009 - STO Afua Gyaamah Gyima BSc (Agric), KNUST, 2011 - STO Seth Odjerh Cert. in Agric., 1993 - TO Franklin Bosompem Denkyira Dip. (Gen. Agric.), Kwadaso Agric. College, 2010 - TO
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HORTICULTURE
Tropical Fruits /Plantain Programme
Beloved Mensah Dzomeku MPhil (Crop Physiology), UoG. 1994 - SRS Paul Mintah MPhil. (Agronomy), UCC, 1995 - RS Ernest Baafi MSc. (Plant Breeding), KNUST, 2005 - RS Solomon K. Darkey MPhil. (Agric. Extn)UCC, 2011 - RS Alberta Nsenkyire Dip. (Gen. Agric.), Kwadaso Agric. College, 2011 - TO
Vegetables K. Offei Bonsu MPhil. (Plant Breeding), UCC, 1995 - RS Seth Obosu-Ekyem MPhil. (Weed Science), UCC, 1993 - RS Michael Osei Kwabena MSc (Agronomy/ Pl. Breeding), KNUST, 2010 - RS Hillary Mireku Bortey MSc. (Seed Science & Tech.), KNUST, 2010 - RS Isaac Osei Bonsu M. Phil. (Botany), UoG, 2011 - RS Evans Mac Amoo BSc. (Agric.), UCC, 2006 - ARS Joseph Gyau B. Ed. (Agric.)UEW (Mampong), 2011 - PTO Adam Haruna Cert. in Agric. (ATC) 1986 - PTO Joshua Atisu Cert. in Agric. (ATC) 1986 - TO
CROP MANAGEMENT AND SOCIO- ECONOMICS Crop Management
On-station Research
Joseph Nketia Berchie PhD. (Crop Physiology), KNUST, 2010 - SRS Stella Ama Ennin PhD (Agronomy), Univ. of Nebraska, USA, 1997 -CRS Patricia Oteng Darko MSc (Soil & Water Engineering), KNUST, 2011 -RS Shadrack K. Amponsah MSc (Agric. Mech. Engineering), KNUST, 2011 - RS Stephen Yeboah M. Phil (Crop Physiology), KNUST, 2010 - RS Eric Owusu Danquah M.Phil (Agroforestry), KNUST, 2011 - RS Kennedy Agyeman MSc. (Agroforestry), KNUST, 2011 - RS Erasmus Narteh Tetteh MSc. (Agroforestry), KNUST, 2011 - RS Mavis Numafo BSc (Nat. Resource Mgmt), KNUST, 2005 - PTO Michael T. Odamteen BSc. (Agric. Tech. ), UDS, 2010 - PTO S. Obeng Antwi G.C.E. (Adv. Level ), 1976 - PTO Aisha Karim BSc. (Agric. Tech.), UDS, 2011 - STO John K. Fordjour Cert. in Agric. (ATC), 2004 - TO
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On-Farm Research
Henry Asumadu PhD (Crop Physiology), Univ. of Reading, UK, 1995 - SRS Patterson Osei-Bonsu MSc. (Agronomy), Kishiner Agric. Inst., USSR, 1988 -RS Offei Micah Apraku Dip. (Post Harvest Tech.) UoG. 2002 - PTO David Akye Yuure Cert. in Agric. (ATC), 1991 - PTO P.E. Amoa-Darko Dip. Agric. – 1980 - PTO F.M. Agbeshie Cert. in Agric. (ATC) 1975. - PTO J. Owusu Mensah Cert. in Agric. (ATC ) 1978 - PTO Titus K. Gbarinaa Cert. in Agric . 1978 - STO Joseph B. O. Antwi Cert. in Agric. (ATC) 1993 - STO Beethoven Ameho Cert. in Agric. (ATC) 1991 - PTO Zakaria Atohulo Cert. in Agric. (ATC) 1991 -STO
Socio-Economics
*Joyce A.S. Haleegoah M.A (Rural Sociology), Univ. of Guelph, Canada, 1996 -RS * Bright Owusu Asante M.Phil (Agric. Econs), UoG, 2009 -RS Jonas Osei-Adu M.Phil (Agric. Econs.), KNUST, 2010 - RS *Patricia Acheampong MSc. (Econs. / Public Policy), Univ. of Hull, UK, 2003 - ARS Natson Eyram Amengo M.A. (Economics), KNUST, 2012 - RS Alexander Adu-Appiah Dip. (Statistics), UoG, 1999 - CTO Benedicta Nsiah Frimpong BSc (Agric), KNUST, 2006 - PTO Getty Afukaar BA (Psychology), UoG, 2011 - STO *Lydia Brobbey Cert. in Agric . (ATC) 1998 - TO Harriet Yeboah Cert. in Agric. (ATC) 1998 - TO
PLANT HEALTH
Biological Control
Haruna Braimah PhD. (Entomology), Univ. of Reading, U.K. 1997 - SRS
Entomology
Moses B. Mochiah PhD (Entomology), UCC 2002 - SRS Adama Ibrahim MSc (Crop Protection/ Entomolgy),2011 -RS Umar Sanda Issah MSc (Crop Protection/ Entomology), KNUST, 2010 - RS Anthony Gyimah BSc. (Gen. Agric.), KNUST, 2008 - PTO Adama Amadu Cert. (Gen Agric.) ATC, 2009 - STO Matilda Frimpong BSc. (Entomology & Wildlife), UCC, 2009 - STO
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Weed Science
Grace E.K. Bolfrey-Arku PhD (Weed Science), UCC, 2004 - SRS Stephen Arthur B.Ed.(Gen. Agric),UCC, 2011 - STO
Plant Pathology
Emmanuel Moses PhD (Plant Pathology), Univ. of London, UK, 1997 - SRS Kingsley Osei PhD. (Nematology), Univ. of Reading, UK, 2007 -SRS Allen Oppong MSc. (Virology), KNUST 2006, UK, 2006 - RS Joseph Adomako MSc. (Crop Protection/ Nematology), 2010 - RS Atta Kwasi Aidoo Snr. MSc. (Plant Pathology), KNUST, 2011 - RS John Sackey Asante Cert in Agric. (ATC) 1986 - CTO Lord Ohemeng Appiah Cert in Agric. (ATC) 1977 - CTO Zippora Appiah-Kubi BSc. (Biol. Sci.), UCC, Ghana, 2001 - PTO Francis Ayueboteng Cert. in Agric. (ATC) 1991 - PTO Esther Agyemang Marfo BSc .(Gen. Agric.),KNUST,2009 - STO Bismark Abugri Dip. (Gen. Agric.) Kwadaso, Agric. College, 2011 - TO
POKOASE STATION
Elizabeth Okai-Parkes PhD. (Pl. Breeding), Free State Univ., S. Africa, 2011- RS James Konadu Boafo Dip. Agric. UoG, 2002 - CTO Edwin Odame Darko Dip. Agric. UoG. 1997 - PTO
TECHNICAL SERVICES
Biotechnology/ Biochemistry / Tissue Culture/ Food Science /Seed Technology
Michael Akuamoah Boateng MSc. (Food Science & Technology), KNUST, 2006 - RS Marian Dorcas Quain PhD (Botany), UoG. 2007 -SRS Evelyn Adu-Kwarteng MPhil. (Biochemistry), KNUST, 1999 -SRS John Kwadwo Addo MSc. (Food Sci. and Tech.), KNUST, 2004 -RS Albert Aubyn MPhil (Horticulture), Wye College, U.K. 1998 - RS *Francis Amoako-Andoh MSc. (Biochem.), Donetsk State Univ., Ukraine, 1995 - RS Ruth Thompson MPhil (Biological Science), KNUST, 2008 - RS Charles Afriyie Debrah MSc. (Environmental Science), KNUST, 2009 - RS *Priscilla Adofo Boateng MSc. (Agronomy/ Plant Breeding), KNUST, 2010 - RS Harry Okyere MSc. (Analytical Chemistry), KNUST, 2010 - RS Victor Acheampong Amankwaah MSc. (Agronomy/ Plant Breeding), KNUST, 2012 - RS Henry Akrofi Doku MPhil. (Nuclear Agriculture), UoG. 2011 - RS David Appiah Kubi BSc. (Biol. Sci.), UCC, 2001 - CTO Linda A. Abrokwah BSc. (Mol. Biology & Biotech.), U.C.C. 2008 -Technologist
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Belinda Akomeah BSc. (Laboratory Technology), U.C.C. 2008 - Technologist Faustina Okyere BSc. (Chemistry), KNUST, 2010 - Technologist Stanley Asare Dip. (Crop Production) UoG. 2009 - STO Theodora A. Mensah Dip.(Agric. Econs. & Extn.), K’daso Agric. Coll. 2006 -STO Agnes Achiaa Aboagye BSc. (Biochemistry), KNUST, 2011 -STO Gertrude Osei-Diko BSc. (Biochemistry), UDS, 2011 - STO Daniel K. Cudjoe BSc. (Biochemistry), UCC, 2011 -STO Lily Naa Adoley Allotey BSc. (Biological Sci.), KNUST, 2011 -STO Agnes Nimo Bosompem BSc. (Biochemistry), UDS, 2011 -STO Monica Ode Adu-Gyamfi Dip. (Nat. Res. Mgt.), KNUST, 2008 -TO Syl via Kafui Artcher HND (Chem. Eng.), Kumasi Polytechnic, 2009 -TO Joyce M. Gbarimaa Dip. (Gen. Agric.), Kwadaso Agric. College -TO Abigail Amoa-Owusu HND (Chem. Eng.), Kumasi Poly, 2010 -Asst. Technologist
Seed Technology
Doris Puozaa MSc. (Seed Science & Technology), UoG -RS Sadia Osuman Alimatu BSc. (Agric Tech.), UDS, 2008 -PTO Alhassan Baduon Cert. in Agric. (ATC) 1986 -PTO
COMMERCIALIZATION AND SCIENTIFIC SUPPORT SERVICES
Isaac Stewart Baning MSc. (Info. Science), City Univ., London, U.K. 1995 - Prin. Sci. Sec. *Lynda Gifty S. Nsafoah B.A (Info. Studies & Linguistics), UoG, 2008 - Prin. Adm. Asst.
Training and Communication
Isaac Osei Owusu Ansah MSc. (Extn. Educ.), Reading, U.K., 1993 - RS Solomon Gyasi Boakye M.A. (Comm. Studies), UoG, 2004 - Sci. Info. Officer Mary Nuako-Bandoh BSc. (Agric Extension), UCC, 2006 - ARS
Biometrics / Info. Tech.
Adelaide Agyeman MSc. (Mathematics), KNUST, 2002 - SRS Agnes Asiedu Ankomah MSc. (Mathematics), KNUST, 2002 - RS Emmanuel Sosu BSc (Computer Sci.), KNUST, 2003 - ARS Harriet A. Dwamena BSc (Mathematics), Univ. of Mines & Tech. 2010 - PTO David Kow Amo Hon. Dip. (Network Engineering), NIIT, 2005 -TO George Sefa-Anane Hon. Dip. (Network Engineering, NIIT, 2009 - TO
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Library
Lawrencia D. Acheampong M.A. (Library Studies), Univ. of Ghana, 2009 - Librarian Eric Aduko MDPI Cert. (Office Mgmt & Admin.) 1991 - Prin. Lib. Asst.
Commercialization
Emmanuel Agyei Asamoah MSc.(Agroforestry), KNUST, 2007 -RS Martin Osei Bonsu B Ed. (Accounting), UEW. 2004 – Asst. Accountant. Joseph Owusu GCE (Ord. Level),1972 – CTO Mark Anti BA (Busn. Management), UCC. 2007 – Prin. Mkting Asst
ACCOUNTS
Samuel Adu Inst. of Chart Acct III, 1993 - Accountant Lord R. Kyeremeh BSc. (Accounting), UEW – Kumasi, 2007 - Asst. Accountant Isaac Donkor BSc. (Accounting), UEW – Kumasi, 2007 - Asst. Accountant Emmanuel Buckman Inst. of Chart. Acct. I - Chief. Acct. Asst. Samuel Sakyi Darko Inst. of Chart. Acct. I - 1996 - Chief Acct. Asst. Abraham Walden Inst. of Chart. Acct. II - 1998 - Chief Acct. Asst. Anthony Ofori Inst. of Chart. Acct. II – 2004 - Chief Acct. Asst. Daniel Tetteh B. Com (Accounting), UCC, 2008 -Prin. Acct. Asst. James Nyag BSc. (Busn. Admin./Acct.), KNUST, 2011 - Prin.. Acct. Asst. Peter Amoah Dip. Acct. (Univ. of Ghana) -2002 - Prin. Acct. Asst. John Amihere Mensah Inst. of Chart. Acct. I - 2000 - Snr. Acct. Asst. Henry Asiedu Boateng GCE A/L (1994) - Snr. Acct. Asst. Fredrick Owusu D.B.S. (Acct), A/L (1994) - Snr. Acct. Asst. Isaac Osei Mensah HND (Accounting) 2004, - Snr. Acct. Asst. Emmanuel Manu ICM, (Accounting), Advanced Level (2005) - Snr. Acct. Asst. Thomas Konadu Yiadom RSA III ( 1980) - Snr. Acct. Asst. Mawusi Lotsu DBS (Accounting) 1999 - Snr. Acct. Asst.
ADMINISTRATION
Lawrence K. Mensah M.A. (Pub. Admin),UoG, 2000 - Admin. Officer David Denu B.Ed. (Soc. Science),UCC, 2003 -Asst. Admin. Officer Emmanuel Afriyie B.A. (Soc. Science), KNUST, 2005 -Asst. Admin. Officer Linda Agyeman B.A (French), KNUST, 2008 - Prin. Admin. Asst. Hagar Assan B.A. (Busn. Admin.) UEW. 2009 -P.A.A. Christina Ivy Tetteh B.A.(Busn. Admin.), CSUC, 2008 - P.A.A. Joyce Larbi-Siaw B.A.(Busn. Admin.)CSUC, 2009 - P.A.A. Maxwell Kwodane Dip. (Gen. Agric.) Kwadaso Agric College, 2011 - TO
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*Study Leave
78