Farmers, researchers, and stakeholders have gathered in Gushie for an impactful Brown Field Day under the PROSIVA Project, led by Dr. Kwabena Darkwa, a yam breeder from CSIR-SARI. This event is showcasing innovative solutions to transform yam production in Ghana by introducing a formal, efficient yam seed system.
🎯 The Key Innovation
The traditional yam seed system is non-existent, creating a gap that limits productivity. The PROSIVA Project is addressing this issue by introducing a groundbreaking technology: vine cuttings, which produce high-quality mini tubers for use as seed yam. This approach offers numerous benefits, including:
✅ Consistent, high-quality seed yam
✅ Lower costs of production
✅ Reduced labor and disease spread
✅ Enhanced yields and profitability
Dr. Kwabena Darkwa explained:
“For years, farmers have relied on inconsistent practices to produce yam seeds, which has affected their productivity and incomes. With vine cutting technology producing mini tubers, we are creating a structured, sustainable, and reliable yam seed system that will improve livelihoods and ensure food security.”
One farmer shared their reaction after seeing the results:
“I was there during planting and thought the tubers were too small. We wondered if they even knew what they were doing, but seeing today’s harvest, I’m amazed at the size of the tubers. This is magical!”
🌟 A Vision for the Future
Through the PROSIVA Project, CSIR-SARI aims to formalize and sanitize the yam seed system, providing farmers with reliable, cost-effective solutions. By leveraging vine cuttings technology, Ghana’s yam production is set to achieve higher yields, improved quality, and better market opportunities.
📍 Location: Gushie
🕒 Time: All day
A big thank you to Dr. Darkwa, the CSIR-SARI team, and all the hardworking farmers who are embracing this innovation. Together, we are sowing the seeds of a brighter agricultural future.
