Nutrition
Fact sheet about sweet potato, groundnut and cowpea in Ghana
It is interesting to note that:
- CRI-Vern Gracen, CRI-AGRA SP09, CRI-AGRA SP13 and CRI-Kofi Annan, all improved high-yielding, non-sweet sweet potatoes varieties, were released in 2017. They have staple taste, higher storage root yield, that is 19 to 39t/ha, sugar content is 14.47- 18.12 per cent, early-maturing (four to five months), and higher tolerance to the sweet potato virus (SPVD), sweet potato weevils (Cylas sp.) and alcidodes. They are suitable for all five eco zones in Ghana. The varieties can be used for fufu, French fries chunk[1]fried, ampesi (boiled/steamed), crispy chips, for bread and pastries, yoghurt, baby foods and juice gluten-free noodles. They are also potential enzyme source for breweries and other industries.
- WAAPP Piesa 1, Manga-moya, Maa-Lana, Naachem-Tiir and Nutsugah Piesa, all Frafra potato varieties, were released in 2017. Their ovoid tubers are up to eight centimetres in length. Besides, their raw tubers are exceptionally nutritious, resistant to diseases and pests. They mature from107 to 113 days. The varieties are applicable to Guinea Savanna, Sudan Savanna, Coastal Savanna and forest zones. They can be used for thick porridge, tuo-zaafi, amongst others.
- Sweet potato: CSIR-SA[1]RI Nan variety was released in 2018. This variety is resistant to diseases and pests, climate-smart, orange fleshed, high dry matter: 26-29.5 per cent, drought-tolerant and yields 24t/ha. It is suitable for Guinea and Sudan Savanna agro-ecological zones of Ghana. It can be used for thick porridge, tuo-zaafi, etc.
- Sweet potato: CSIR-SARI Diedi variety was released in 2018. It is purple fleshed, tolerant to SPVD, yields 14t/ha and drought-tolerant. Applicable to Guinea and Sudan Savanna agro-ecological zones of Ghana. It can be used for ampesi.
- Sweet potato: CSIR-SARI Nyumengre variety was released in 2018. It is white fleshed, resistant to diseases and pests, drought-tolerant and yields 16t/Ha. The variety is suitable for Guinea and Sudan Savanna agro-ecological zones of Ghana. It can be used for ampesi.
- Sweet potato: Micro-propagation protocol for the mass generation of planting material of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) variety. The protocol supports the production of planting material to address the inadequate supply of sweet potato vines and storage roots. The procedure eliminates disease-causing organisms, giving the resulting plant[1]lets more vigorous growth and increased yield. Use of the protocol/method generates pathogen-free material which prevents the transfer of diseases and pests from one point to the other and allows easy international exchange of sweet potato germplasm. The protocol can be a foundation for downstream research applications including genetic transformation activities. The variety is applicable to Guinea Sudan Savanna agro-ecological zones of Ghana. Advantages: Mass production of true-to-type disease-free planting material for existing and newly released varieties. Additionally, it enhances rapid international germplasm exchange (limited quarantine requirements)
- Munikpa groundnut variety was released in 2005. It matures in 90 days, yields 2.0 t/ha, kernels are of very large size, very high oil content (51.8 per cent) and moderately resistant to early and late leaf spot. Munikpa is suitable for Guinea Savanna ecology. Besides, it is suitable for oil production and confectionary products
- Kpanielli groundnut variety was released in 2005. It matures in 120 days, yields 2.4 t/ha, kernels are of very large size, very high oil content (51.8 per cent), suitable for commercial production and resistant to early and late leaf spot. Kpanielli is applicable to Guinea Savanna ecology. It can be used for confectionary trade, has better resistance to Cercospora disease, has good resistance to foliar diseases and it is dry season feed for livestock.
- Jusie Balin groundnut variety was released in 2005. It matures in 100 days, yield of 2.0 t/ha, oil content is 47 per cent. Jusie Balin is applicable to Guinea Savanna ecology. Has better resistance to Cercospora leaf spot disease. It is good field dormancy.
- Edorkpo-mu nikpa groundnut variety was released in 2005. It matures in 90 days, yield of 2.0 t/ha, yields between eight to 12 bags in half an acre. It is suitable for all agro ecological zones of Ghana. Edorkpo-mu[1]nikpa is resistant to Cercospora leaf spot diseases, it is good field dormancy and can delay harvesting up to 10 days without germinating.
- SARINUT 1 SARINUT 2 groundnut variety was released in 2019. It matures in 90 days, adaptable to climate change, high in protein and oil and yield between 8-12 bags/ half acre. It is applicable to Northern agro ecological zones of Ghana. Has a higher oil content of 51 per cent, resistant to Cercospora leaf spot diseases and can delay harvesting up to 14 days without germinating.
- Bawutawuta cowpea variety was released in 2008. It is resistant to striga, medium-to-late maturing, has high biomass, yields 3.0 t/ha, has erect plant stature with few runners and small leaves and matures in 69-75 days. Bawutawuta is suitable for Guinea and Sudan Savannah zones. It has resistance to striga and resistant to most insects and diseases.
- Songotra cowpea variety was released in 2008. It has erect plant stature with no vines and small leaves, matures in 62-65 days, majority of the pods are slightly above the canopy, seed shape is fairly round, the seed coat colour is creamy white and has potential yield of 2.0 t/ha. Songotra is applicable toSahel, Sudan and Savanna zones. It is highly resistant to striga. Besides, it is moderately resistant to most insects and diseases.
- Padi-tuya cowpea variety was released in 2008. It has erect plant stature with few vines and large thick leaves, matures in 64-67 days, seed shape is round to kidney shape and yield potential is 2.4 t/ha. Padi-tuya is suitable for Sahel, Sudan, Guinea Savanna zones and humid areas. It has short cooking time. Besides, it is moderately resistant to insects, diseases and striga. The per cent harvest in total yield (determinacy) is moderate (about 72 per cent).
- Zaayura Pali, Diffeele, Soo-Sima, Wang Kae and Kirk[1]house benga-1 cowpea varieties were released in 2016. They are resistant to cowpea aphid and striga. The varieties are adaptable over northern Ghana. They are good source of iron.
Source: Manual of Agricultural Technologies developed by
CSIR, MAG and MoFA
Page: 98-102, 54-56 & 48-49
Nutrition
The First 1,000 Days: Why Ghana’s investment in maternal and child nutrition matters for human capital development
From the start of pregnancy to a child’s second birthday, the first 1,000 days, represents the most important window for human development. Good nutrition shapes the foundation.
During this short window, the body and brain grow at a pace that will never be repeated. When nutrition is inadequate, the damage to physical growth and cognitive development is often permanent. No later investment in education or healthcare can fully reverse these losses. Ghana’s future workforce and economic progress depend on getting nutrition right during this critical period.
Science is clear. A baby’s brain develops rapidly during pregnancy and early childhood, forming the foundation for all future learning and health. Adequate nutrients during pregnancy support the formation of neural connections that underpin learning, memory, and emotional regulation. When pregnant women lack essential nutrients, their babies begin life at a disadvantage. When young children experience severe malnutrition, they miss critical growth periods that do not return.
Ghana faces serious challenges during this critical window. An estimated 68,517 children suffer from severe acute malnutrition. Between 37 and 63 percent of pregnant women are anemic, with iron deficiency particularly common in late pregnancy. These problems translate directly into diminished potential. Malnourished children perform worse in school, earn less as adults, and face higher risks of chronic diseases. The economic losses multiply across generations.
Research worldwide shows that nutrition investments during the first 1,000 days deliver exceptional returns. Well-nourished children learn better, perform better academically, and become more productive adults. Countries that invest in early nutrition experience faster economic growth through stronger, more productive workforces.
Ghana already has effective solutions. Multiple Micronutrient Supplements for pregnant women reduce the risk of low birth weight and preterm birth, while Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food enables high recovery rates for children with severe acute malnutrition. Both are approved in Ghana’s health guidelines. The problem is not lack of knowledge but lack of access. Coverage remains limited because financing depends heavily on donor support rather than sustainable domestic systems.
Integrating these nutrition interventions into the National Health Insurance Scheme would help close this gap. With a large proportion of mothers and young children already enrolled, NHIS provides a platform for nationwide reach. Recent reforms to health financing further strengthen the case for prioritising essential nutrition services within the scheme.
Ghana’s development agenda emphasizes industrialisation, innovation, and economic transformation. Achieving these goals requires a workforce capable of learning, problem-solving, and sustained productivity. Human capital development, however, does not begin at universities or training centers. It begins before birth.
The first 1,000 days offer no second chances. Each year of delay means another group of children enter adulthood carrying preventable disadvantages. Investing in nutrition during this critical window is not only a health priority; it is a foundational investment in Ghana’s economic future.
Feature article by Womec, Media and Change under its Nourish Ghana: Advocating for Increased Leadership to Combat Malnutrition project
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Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar (Hijri) calendar, is a period of fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth. A vital part of observing Ramadan is Iftar—the evening meal with which Muslims break their daily fast at sunset. Fruits play an essential role in Iftar, providing nutrition, hydration, and energy after long hours of fasting.
Here are some of the most recommended fruits to include in your Ramadan meals:
Dates
Dates are traditionally used to break the fast. They are rich in sugar, fibre, potassium, vitamins, and minerals, helping to restore energy quickly after fasting.
Watermelon
Watermelon is highly consumed for hydration, as it is composed mostly of water. It can be enjoyed in slices or blended into refreshing smoothies.
Bananas
Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, which helps maintain fluid balance and reduce thirst. They also provide natural energy to keep you going after fasting.
Apples
Apples are fibre-rich and nutritious, promoting heart health, aiding weight management, and improving digestion.
Cucumber
Cucumber is one of the best hydrating fruits, composed of water and fibre, which aids digestion while revitalising the body.
Pawpaw (Papaya)
Pawpaw is low in calories and sugar, rich in fibre, and promotes healthy digestion, hair, and skin. It is a nutritious addition to any Iftar meal.
Including a variety of these fruits during Ramadan not only helps replenish lost nutrients but also supports overall health, digestion, and hydration throughout the fasting period.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
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