Farmers say it is already transforming harvests — boosting yields while cutting costs through reduced chemical use.

The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) has confirmed that the PBR cowpea is the only GM seed currently cleared for planting in Ghana.

Principal Biosafety Officer, Kwesi Anderson, explained that the approval followed strict scientific and safety protocols, dismissing rumours that other GM seeds had been approved.

“There are rumours that the NBA has granted permits for 14 varieties, but those permits cover only grains for food, feed, and processing, not for planting. The only GM seed approved for cultivation is the PBR cowpea,” he clarified.

Farmers and crop breeders describe the new GM variety as a resilient crop that requires minimal pesticide application while delivering higher yields.?Some farmers told Channel One News that myths about GM crops should be ignored, stressing that the PBR cowpea is safe and beneficial.

“I had a bumper harvest this year with the PBR cowpea. I spent less on chemicals and still got better yields,” said Kwabena Yaw James, a Farmer and an Out-grower.

Speaking at a demonstration field in Nyankpala in the Tolon district, where the new variety has been planted, Food scientists at CSIR–SARI, Dr. Flora Christine Amagloh, assured that the PBR cowpea is just as nutritious as the conventional variety, with its proteins, vitamins, and minerals intact.

“The genetic modification has not altered its protein, vitamins, carbohydrates, or mineral content; it is still safe and healthy to consume “

The PBR cowpea — also known as Songotra T — was developed by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research in partnership with local and international organisations. It was officially launched in July 2024 and is being welcomed as a major breakthrough for Ghana’s agriculture.