CSIR-CRI Launches Multicultural Tech Hub

Introduction to the Multicultural Technology Park

The Crops Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR-CRI) has taken a significant step towards a sustainable agricultural future in Ghana and across Africa by inaugurating a multicultural technology park. This initiative marks a bold move in promoting agroecology, circular economy, and climate action. The park is part of the Agroecology and Circular Economy for Ecosystem Services (ACE4ES) Project, which aims to foster sustainable agriculture practices that help reduce short-lived climate pollutants while enhancing ecosystem services.

Purpose and Function of the Technology Park

Spanning 15 acres, the technology park serves as a multifaceted hub for innovation. It will be used to test, demonstrate, and scale up validated technologies related to agroecology and circular systems. Additionally, the park will function as a center for learning and capacity building, equipping farmers, researchers, and policymakers with the necessary tools and knowledge to transition toward sustainable agricultural practices.

Dr. Kwaku Onwona-Hwesofour Asante, the ACE4ES Africa Consortium Coordinator and a scientist at CRI, highlighted the importance of the park during its commissioning. He mentioned that the facility is equipped with instruments designed to measure methane, nitrous oxide, and black carbon—super pollutants in agriculture. These measurements are crucial for understanding and mitigating the environmental impact of agricultural activities.

Launch Events and Collaborations

The launch of the technology park coincided with the 2025 Open Day of CSIR-CRI and the introduction of the Regional Policy Guide on Agroecology, Circular Economy, and Climate Action. These events took place in Fumesua, near Ejisu in the Ashanti region. Dr. Asante emphasized the need for additional support to enable scientists to conduct various agroecological studies across different regions. This research is essential for generating data that will allow Ghana to participate in opportunities related to agricultural greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs).

Ghana currently lacks emission factors for agricultural GHGs, which poses a challenge for the country in addressing agricultural emissions issues. However, agroecology, an age-old principle, is gaining traction as a key concept that drives ecosystem services. It focuses on reducing inputs, recycling resources, and maintaining animal and plant health.

Expert Insights and Strategic Vision

Professor Paul Pinnock Bosu, the Director-General of CSIR, noted that the launch of the technology park and the policy document aligns well with the first thrust of CSIR’s corporate strategic plan. This plan emphasizes the council's commitment to promoting private sector-driven research and development, as well as technological innovation.

Prof. Maxwell Darko Asante, the Director of CSIR-CRI, stated that the institution is well-positioned to support the Government’s Feed Ghana Programme. This includes recommending suitable crop varieties and associated technologies, producing adequate breeder and foundation seeds, and partnering with seed growers to produce certified seeds. These efforts aim to ensure sustainable agriculture practices across the nation.

Commitment from Stakeholders

Mr. Kwasi Etu-Bonde, Technical Advisor to the Minister of Food and Agriculture, pledged the Ministry’s readiness to collaborate with ACE4ES and all stakeholders. The goal is to ensure that the benefits of the technology park reach every farmer and community in Ghana. This collaboration is vital for achieving widespread adoption of sustainable agricultural practices.

Conclusion

The inauguration of the multicultural technology park represents a significant milestone in Ghana's journey toward sustainable agriculture. By fostering innovation, providing educational resources, and promoting collaborative efforts, the park is poised to make a lasting impact on agricultural practices and environmental sustainability in Ghana and beyond.