The President of the Ghana Association for Food Scientists and Technologists (GhAFoST), Nana Professor Emmanuel Afoakwa, has called for stronger collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to advance innovation and sustainability in Ghana’s food systems.
He made the call at the Association’s 2nd Annual General Meeting (AGM), held under the theme “Food Systems Multi-Stakeholder Engagement for Sustainable Development.”
Describing the AGM as “a convergence of minds, passion, and purpose,” Prof. Afoakwa emphasized that the sustainability of the nation’s food system depends on the collective effort of all stakeholders.
He urged members to nurture the next generation of food scientists while influencing national policies and industry practices that promote food safety and sustainability.
He further encouraged participants to bring more professionals from academia, research, and policymaking into the association to strengthen its network and impact.
The meeting, hosted by the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), brought together researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss emerging challenges and opportunities within Ghana’s food system.
Professor Jacob Kwaku Agbenorhevi, Secretary of GhAFoST and lecturer at KNUST’s Department of Food Science and Technology, called on food scientists across the country to become active members of the association.
He presented an overview of GhAFoST’s achievements and ongoing efforts in advancing food science and technology in Ghana.
Professor (Mrs.) Ibok Oduro, Financial Secretary of GhAFoST and faculty member at KNUST’s Department of Food Science and Technology, urged members to be more visible and proactive.
“This is the time we should be loud and make ourselves available to analyse, brief, teach, and help the people of Ghana. We are not politicians, but we want to influence policies so let’s get involved,” she said.
Mr. Alistair Djimatey, Head of Foundation and Corporate Affairs at Blue Skies Limited, underscored the need for collaboration and research-driven action to build resilient food systems.
“We must view the food system as a living ecosystem interconnected and dynamic where every sector plays a vital role. The bridge between each stakeholder must be science, dialogue, and trust,” he stated.
He added, “Our laboratories must not only produce data but solutions our farmers can use. The challenges we face, and the solutions we seek, can and must be achieved.”
The event also celebrated excellence in food science research and presentation.
Dr. Nana Baah Peprah-Ameyaw, a lecturer at the Department of Food Science and Technology, KNUST, won first prize in the Oral Presentation Category, while Ray Johnson Adomako and Stephanie Adomaa Aboagye received the Best Poster Prize Award.
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