UCC, ATU Secure China–Ghana Joint Laboratory Grant for Food Security Research

Researchers from the University of Cape Coast (UCC) and Accra Technical University (ATU), in collaboration with Chinese institutions, have secured a ¥2 million grant under China’s National Key Research and Development Program to establish the China–Ghana Joint Laboratory for Food Security and Storage.

The project, which also involves Jimei University, Jiangsu University and Sinograin Chengdu Storage Research Institute Co., Ltd., aims to improve grain quality and reduce post-harvest losses through advanced storage technologies tailored to Ghana’s environmental conditions.

The initiative will focus on developing affordable innovations such as intelligent monitoring systems, pest and mould early-warning tools, and improved grain preservation methods for crops like maize, rice and sorghum.

According to researchers, Ghana continues to face major post-harvest challenges due to heat, humidity, pest infestations and inadequate storage systems, leading to significant losses in quality and income for farmers.

As part of the project, demonstration sites—including one in Ghana—will be used to test and refine the technologies under real-world conditions while engaging farmers and storage operators.

The initiative will also support capacity building by training Ghanaian researchers and students in modern post-harvest and grain storage techniques, strengthening local expertise and innovation.

The project highlights growing international collaboration and is expected to enhance food security, improve agricultural sustainability and strengthen Ghana’s research capacity in food systems management.