Report by: News Desk
The Ghana Journalists for Environment, Science, Health and Agriculture (GJESHA) has joined the call for an immediate moratorium on the commercialization of 14 newly developed genetically modified (GM) products in Ghana.
According to the Group, the government needs to prioritize agroecological approaches that promote biodiversity, resilience, and equitable access to nutritious food for all citizens.
However, the recent approval granted by the Ghana National Biosafety Authority (NBA) for the commercialization of genetically modified (GM) products is of great concern to the group which has members from various media houses across the country.
This was contained in a press release signed by the Group General Secretary, Prince Kwame Tamakloe, and issued today, 9th April 2024 in Accra.
“While proponents of GM technology argue its potential to increase yields and enhance food security, GJESHA firmly believes that this decision poses grave risks to our environment, public health, and agricultural sustainability”, the release reiterated.
The commercialization of GM products GJESHA noted threatens the biodiversity of Ghana’s rich agricultural heritage. By introducing genetically engineered crops into our ecosystem.
Adding that, “we risk the contamination of native plant species through cross-pollination, jeopardizing the delicate balance of our environment and the livelihoods of countless farmers who rely on traditional farming practices”.
“The long-term health impacts of consuming GM foods remain uncertain, despite assurances from biotechnology companies, numerous studies have raised concerns about the potential allergenicity, toxicity, and unintended consequences of genetically modified crops”.
As journalists, GJESHA reiterated its commitment to uphold public welfare, and hence cannot ignore these legitimate concerns regarding the safety of GM products.
“The approval of GM crops undermines the sovereignty of Ghana’s agricultural sector and perpetuates dependency on multinational corporations for seeds and inputs. Instead of investing in sustainable, locally adapted agricultural practices, this decision prioritizes the interests of biotech companies over the well-being of Ghanaian farmers and consumers, the Release bemoaned.
Though GJESHA recognizes the importance of science and innovation in addressing the complex challenges facing our society, it believes that true progress must be guided by principles of precaution, transparency, and inclusivity.
To them, the lack of robust public consultation and independent scientific scrutiny surrounding the approval process raises serious questions about its legitimacy and democratic accountability.
Therefore the Release called upon fellow journalists and civil society organizations to join them in raising awareness and advocating for evidence-based policies that safeguard our environment, health, and agricultural sovereignty.
“As stewards of our nation’s future, we must stand together to ensure that Ghana’s agricultural policies serve the interests of its people and the planet, not the profits of multinational corporations.
“Let us seize this moment to embrace a vision of agriculture that nourishes our communities, preserves our natural heritage, and empowers future generations to thrive.
#StopGMCommercialization
#SayNotoGMFoods
#ProtectGhanasRichAgricHeritage
#SafeguardGhanasAgricSovereignty
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
