Stakeholders in the agriculture sector have been urged to prioritise the promotion and adoption of responsible agrochemicals usage.

This, according to the Ghana Institute of Horticulturists (GhIH), will help avoid diseases such as cancer, neurological challenges, birth-defects and respiratory infections, among others.

Speaking at the 24th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Scientific Conference of GhIH in Kumasi, agronomist Dr. Daniel Attivor reiterated the need to create awareness on dangers of using agrochemicals irresponsibly.

He urged stakeholders to work toward increased horticultural production, while emphasising the need to balance agrochemical usage with considerations for health, wealth and environmental sustainability.

“Everybody is at risk, so we must all join the crusade of creating awareness for responsible use of these chemicals,” Dr. Attivor said.

Mr. Attivor also called for sustainable solutions in horticulture – advocating integrated approaches, precision agriculture and robust regulatory frameworks.

He noted that these measures are essential for promoting responsible agrochemical use while ensuring safer food for consumers, thus maintaining economic viability for farmers and protecting the environment for future generations.

Presenting the keynote address, Senior Research Scientist and Seed Systems Expert at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Crops Research Institute, Dr. Hillary Mireku Botey, underscored the transformative impact of agrochemicals on horticultural crop production. However, he warned that irresponsible use poses significant health and environmental risks.

Dr. Botey highlighted the importance of education in mitigating these risks, expressing hope that farmers and stakeholders will adopt safer practices with proper training.

“It is our responsibility to ensure that farmers and horticulturists are well-informed about the proper usage, dosages and timing of agrochemical applications. Personal protective equipment (PPE) should be a standard requirement and regular training programmes must be conducted to update our knowledge and practices in line with global standards,” he said.

He further called for the establishment of a national research body dedicated to horticulture so as to propel the industry’s growth and development.

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