In 2020 alone, the Cashew industry generated 200 million dollars revenue for Ghana, from the export of the raw nuts. The sector has emerged as a cornerstone of Ghana’s non-traditional exports, playing an important role in the nation’s economic landscape.
Farming cashew is now a key sector in the agricultural economy, contributing significantly to employment, export earnings, and rural livelihoods. Over 300,000 farmers and an estimated 200,000 additional individuals are involved in various stages along the value chain, including traders, transporters and processes. However, research into the cashew industry—crucial for improving yields, pest resistance, and value addition—faces numerous challenges.
The Crops Research Institute (CRI) under the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG) leads research into the cashew sector in Ghana.
The two research institutes have over the years developed new varieties of cashew aimed at improving cashew production in Ghana, and revamping exports of the crops.
The CRIG is spearheading research into development of improved seed/nut varieties which are resilient to the changing climate.
Dr. Clement Oppong Peprah, a senior Scientist with the Crops Research Institute, notes that research is crucial for optimizing production of any farm produce.
“The sustained growth and profitability of the cashew industry can be significant on continuous research and development.
Research is indispensable for identifying and addressing a number of challenges that seem to optimize production,” he emphasized.
Despite the scientific breakthroughs, research works into the sector continue to impede due to both logistical and financial constraints.
Dr. Oppong Peprah continued: “the research breakthroughs that we’ve enjoyed so far is quite encouraging. But then there are a lot that still impede optimal production and hinder effectiveness of research”.
Below are some major challenges confronting research into the cashew sector.
Challenges
Most research institutions in Ghana struggle with insufficient budget allocations for research. Unlike cocoa, which has enjoyed significant funding and research support, cashew research receives relatively little attention.
Advanced scientific research requires modern tools and their absence hinder progress in breeding high-yield and pest-resistant cashew varieties. Additionally, research farms and nurseries often lack proper irrigation and storage facilities, thwarts efforts to conduct controlled experiments and preserve research samples.
Additionally, limited funding shy away scientists, including upcoming ones, from involving in research into the sector. The country lacks researchers specializing in cashew cultivation and processing. Many agricultural scientists rather prefer working in well-funded sectors such as cocoa or oil palm, leaving cashew research understaffed.
Experts hint of gaps between research institutions and cashew farmers in Ghana. Many farmers continue to lack awareness of improved farming techniques, disease control management, and post-harvest handling strategies developed through research. The absence of effective knowledge transfer mechanisms hinders adoption of scientific advancements. Studies suggest that research findings often fail to be translated into practical solutions for farmers as they usually end up in academic publications.
There is insufficient research into cashew processing technologies, alternative cashew-based products, and market expansion strategies. Inadequate investment in value chain research will continue to make Ghana lose out on the potential revenue from processed cashew products, such as cashew butter, oil, and beverages.
Dr. Oppong Peprah also highlights the prevalence of low and variable materials for growing the crop as a crucial challenge.
“This is often attributed to a combination of factors, including the use of poor or known cashew varieties, the prevalence of old and less productive trees, and poor farm management practices,” he said.
Government supporting research and policy development
While these challenges continue to persist, researchers in the field advocate renewed efforts to revamp the sector. The government and private sectors have been urged to collaborate with research institutions in conducting result-oriented projects into the sector.
Experts advise that the government allocate more resources including infrastructure to cashew research institutions to ensure sustained scientific advancements.
“And if you look at the country as a whole, I think we have a robust and a thriving, thriving cashew sector. It also makes a significant contribution to the GDP and the economic growth of the country. And it also has the power to transform local communities, So, to fully harness the potential of research in thriving growth and profitability in the sector, I think that policy makers must adopt comprehensive and supportive approach,” Dr. Oppong said.
Establishing a dedicated cashew research fund, similar to the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG) for cocoa, can provide consistent financial support as well as partnerships with international donors, private investors, and agricultural development agencies can help secure funding for long-term research projects.
To address the shortage of skilled researchers, experts suggest the government should offer scholarships and training programs for students interested in cashew research.
Competitive salaries, research grants, and career development opportunities can help retain experts in the cashew sector.
“The cashew research and development is indispensable for unlocking the food potential of land in cashew sector. This will drive economic growth, reduce poverty in regions where cashew mitigation is prevalent,” Dr. Oppong added.
Supporting Climate-Resilient Research
Climate change continues to impact agriculture prompting the need for a more research focus on climate resilience. The government has been urged to promote research into climate-resilient cashew varieties that can withstand droughts, pests, and changing weather conditions.
Funding studies on sustainable farming practices, such as agroforestry and organic fertilizers, can help farmers adapt to environmental challenges.
“A proactive adaptation strategy to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change, particularly high temperatures which can significantly reduce cashew trees. Recognizing the increasing threat of climate change, such as agricultural productivity and actively developing solutions to ensure long-term sustainability of cashew farming. And I’m happy that CRIG is taking or has taken the lead on this,” Dr. Oppong emphasized.
Providing farmers with access to climate-smart technologies, including drip irrigation and weather monitoring systems, can also improve yields and sustainability.
Conclusion
Ghana’s cashew industry holds pivotal economic potential, however inadequate research threatens its growth.
Addressing funding gaps, upgrading research facilities, training scientists, and strengthening farmer-researcher collaborations are essential steps toward improving cashew research.
Through proactive measures, the government could ensure that cashew farming remains a thriving sector, benefiting farmers and contributing to national development.
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