GSA launches organic certification scheme to boost agro-industry

The Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), in partnership with the German Development Cooperation under the “Decent Work for a Just Transition” initiative, has launched an organic certification scheme and testing regime for organic produce in Ghana. This new scheme aims to elevate the competitiveness of local producers in international markets and reduce trade barriers related to agro-based produce standards.

Bridging the gap for local producers

The organic certification scheme will assess producers and processors against established organic farming certification requirements. By doing so, it aims to bridge the gap for local producers, making them more competitive internationally. The scheme also aims to position Ghana as a key provider of these services in the sub-region, providing industry players with opportunities to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) policy’s interventions.

Enhancing credibility and marketability

Producers and processors will now have access to an internationally accredited organic certification scheme, offering cutting-edge services at affordable and competitive pricing. This initiative will enhance the credibility of exporters, producers, processors, and retailers of organic produce in both local and international markets.

The GSA, the national statutory body responsible for developing, publishing, and promoting standards in Ghana, ensures that goods and services produced in Ghana are safe, reliable, and of high quality through standardization, metrology, and conformity assessment activities, including testing, inspection, and certification.

Addressing Market Challenges

The establishment of this scheme responds to various market challenges, including substandard goods being falsely classified as organic foods, inadequate enforcement of organic certification requirements, bans on agro-based food exports due to non-fulfilment of requirements, expensive certification regimes by international bodies, and low exports of organic produce.

Supporting Local Economies

Chairman of the Board of the GSA, Prof. Mills, highlighted that organic foods support local economies by bolstering smaller-scale farms and providing consumers with fresher, better-tasting produce. “Choosing organic is not just a personal health decision but also a commitment to environmental sustainability, ethical animal treatment, and community support,” he stated.

Empowering the Agricultural Value Chain

In light of these challenges, the GSA has recognized the pressing need for a locally adapted and accredited Organic Certification Scheme. This initiative will empower participants in the agricultural value chain, ensuring they meet the established criteria for organic farming certification. By facilitating connections between local farmers and global markets, the scheme aims to bolster their competitiveness and diminish trade obstacles linked to agricultural products.

Project Implementation and Support

Simon Hochstein, Component Manager at Invest for Jobs, GIZ, disclosed that the scheme will run as a two-and-a-half-year project aimed at boosting Ghana’s agricultural sector by promoting compliance, facilitating testing, and enhancing the marketability of organic produce from Ghana. “Through this project, Ghanaian SMEs will be able to access various global certifications and trade on the international market. This will, in effect, boost the growth of SMEs, and as they grow, they can create more decent jobs, particularly for the youth in Ghana,” he added.

In April, GIZ commissioned and handed over to the GSA state-of-the-art testing equipment, including an LC-MS system, a nitrogen generator, a centrifuge, and a complete manifold. “This will make our journey towards a green future and a just transition possible. We hope that Ghanaian SMEs will seize this opportunity and align their business models to focus more on green,” Mr. Hochstein noted.

Sustaining and expanding the initiative

Agriculture significantly contributes to Ghana’s GDP. The establishment of conformity assessment activities like organic certification schemes will contribute to the safety of products and improve the economy. The GSA is committed to ensuring the project is sustained and expanded even after its completion.

This initiative marks a significant step towards fostering sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing the marketability of Ghana’s organic produce on a global scale.