The Seed Trade Association of Ghana (STAG), an umbrella body of enterprises in the seed value chain, has been launched to advance the diverse interest of members.

STAG brings together Ghanaian and private international companies registered in Ghana and operating in the supply, production, processing, distribution and marketing of improved seeds of assorted cereals, legumes, vegetables, roots and tuber varieties.

Mr Kwabena Adu-Gyamfi, Chairman of STAG, said the Association, launched during a stakeholder dialogue on seed regulations, aims at representing the interests of the seed industry in Ghana and to help boost the yields of farmers.

He said the seed industry is a specialised area and there is the need for stakeholders to unite and dialogue with government on regulations and policies that would move the industry forward.

Mr Adu-Gyamfi said the launch of the Association would also allow members to work collectively to deal with the problems of materials, training and finance.

“It is a risky business. We need support from government and with STAG we can make the voices of players known to stakeholders,” he said, adding that the Association would also forge partnerships with the public sector to deliver quality seeds to farmers and help bridge the gap between the scientists and members.

Mr Adu-Gyamfi said within the short period of its existence, STAG has been involved in advocacy to get the Seed Regulations passed to guide the implementation of the Plant and Fertiliser Law; get more private sector players on the National Seed Council; and get the price fixing system of seeds abolished in place of a fair market basis of pricing seeds in Ghana.

He said STAG was represented on the National Task Force that worked to amend the draft seed regulations and align it with that of the ECOWAS Regulations to make them compatible.

Mr Adu-Gyamfi said a speedy promulgation of the Seed Regulations would contribute greatly towards the operations of the industry.

In addition, STAG facilitated training on advocacy, financial management and communication for members of the Association, he said.

On future plans, Mr Adu-Gyamfi said STAG plans to seek support from the USAID-ATT for the acquisition of technology, especially irrigation and post-harvest management technologies for its members.

STAG would also work on the development of various maize seed varieties and seek financial support through FinGAP and other institutions for its members as well as block seed orders for members.

Mr Josiah Wobil, Chairman of the launch event, said it is good that members of STAG are going to play an active role in the development and success of the seed sector value chain.

He called on members of STAG to work towards ensuring the productivity and the viability of the seed sector.