Researchers from the University of Cape Coast (UCC) and Accra Technical University, in collaboration with the Jimei University, Jiangsu University and Sinograin Chengdu Storage Research Institute Co., Ltd., 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 grant marks a major milestone in international scientific collaboration and strengthens the role of Ghanaian universities in advancing research aimed at improving food security and agricultural sustainability.
The project is being led by Prof. Chen Quansheng of Jimei University, Engr. Prof. Ernest Teye of UCC, Prof. Felix Y. H. Kutsanedzie of ATU, Prof. Li Dandan of Sinograin Chengdu Storage Research Institute Co., Ltd., Prof. Hao Lin of Jiangsu University, as well as Prof. Chen Xiaomei and Prof. Selorm Yao-Say Solomon Adade of Jimei University.
The China–Ghana Joint Laboratory for Food Security and Storage will focus on improving grain quality and reducing post-harvest losses through the development of practical technologies tailored to Ghana’s environmental conditions.
The initiative comes at a time when grain storage continues to pose significant challenges in Ghana due to high temperatures, humidity, pest infestations, mould contamination and inadequate storage systems. These conditions often lead to reduced grain quality, nutritional losses and economic setbacks for farmers and traders.
Through the project, researchers will develop affordable and adaptable technologies for grains such as maize, rice and sorghum. The technologies will include intelligent monitoring systems, early warning mechanisms for pests and mould, customised sensing systems and improved grain preservation methods aimed at maintaining quality from harvest to storage and distribution.
As part of the implementation process, demonstration sites, including one in Ghana, will be established to test and refine the technologies under real operating conditions. These sites are expected to provide practical platforms for farmers, warehouse operators and agricultural stakeholders to engage with the innovations developed through the project.
The initiative will also contribute to capacity building through the training of Ghanaian researchers, students and technical personnel in modern grain storage and post-harvest management techniques. The training is expected to strengthen local expertise and promote the long-term sustainability of technological innovations within Ghana’s agricultural sector.
The participation of UCC and ATU in the international project highlights the growing research reputation of Ghanaian universities and underscores the importance of global partnerships in addressing development challenges through innovation and knowledge exchange.
The project is expected to support safer food systems, strengthen grain quality management and contribute to building a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector in Ghana.
