John Dumelo urges use of research to boost agriculture

Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, has called on government agencies and stakeholders to not only fund agricultural research institutions but actively implement their findings to enhance the sector’s productivity.

Speaking at the Agribusiness Launchpad and Accelerator Programme held in Accra from July 9–11, Dumelo emphasized that research without application does little to advance national development.

“Funding research institutions is crucial, but it’s not just about funding. We must implement the research outputs,” he said, highlighting institutions like CSIR as key knowledge hubs with untapped potential.

Dumelo also advocated for bringing science institutions such as CSIR under the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to ensure better policy alignment.

On farming strategy, he encouraged farmers to consider dry season farming, which often yields better prices due to reduced supply in the market.

Dr. Mavis Owureku-Asare, CEO of Impact Food Hub, praised the government’s decision to include agribusiness under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, calling it a strategic move to strengthen food production and processing.