TCDA turns to CRIG research to boost disease-resistant cashew and shea varieties

The Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA), led by Chief Executive Officer Dr Andy Osei Okrah, is seeking to strengthen partnerships with the Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG) to leverage research and innovation for the development of key tree crops, specifically cashew and shea. The delegation visited CRIG in Tafo, Eastern Region, to gain firsthand knowledge of the Institute's research and development work and identify potential areas for collaboration.

During the visit, Dr Okrah was briefed on CRIG's research progress on cashew and shea varieties, with a focus on developing disease-resistant options. The TCDA and CRIG discussed the rising threat of diseases, particularly powdery mildew, affecting cashew production and the necessity for research-driven solutions to safeguard productivity and enhance farmer resilience.

The talks also emphasized the significance of farmer awareness and education to ensure effective adoption of improved technologies, varieties, and production practices. In addition to research, the meeting identified potential collaboration opportunities in capacity building and other emerging areas of the tree crop sector. The TCDA delegation toured CRIG's facilities, including the nursery, and observed activities such as cashew seedling grafting, an essential step in producing improved planting materials.

This visit sets the stage for deeper institutional collaboration and partnerships between TCDA and CRIG, aiming to translate CRIG's research into practical interventions for the tree crop sector and strengthen work on improved planting materials, disease management, farmer education, and value addition for cashew and shea.