Researching into cashew industry: Challenges and way forward
Source: Myjoyonline.com
In 2020 alone, the Cashew industry generated 200 million dollars revenue for Ghana, from the export of the raw nuts. The sector has emerged as a cornerstone of Ghana's non-traditional exports, playing an important role in the nation's economic landscape.
Farming cashew is now a key sector in the agricultural economy, contributing significantly to employment, export earnings, and rural livelihoods. Over 300,000 farmers and an estimated 200,000 additional individuals are involved in various stages along the value chain, including traders, transporters and processes. However, research into the cashew industry—crucial for improving yields, pest resistance, and value addition—faces numerous challenges.
The Crops Research Institute (CRI) under the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana (CRIG) leads research into the cashew sector in Ghana.
