MoFA and UNIDO Inspect Bekwai Rice Processors under Japan-Funded ITEQ Initiative

By Yussif Ibrahim, GNA Bekwai (Ash), Nov. 20, GNA – A collaborative team consisting of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), the Unit...

By Yussif Ibrahim, GNA

Bekwai (Ash), Nov. 20, GNA – A collaborative team consisting of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and the Ghana Standards Authority carried out a subsequent inspection of rice processing facilities in the Bekwai Municipality.

These microprocessors benefit from the Improving Technology and Quality Control System for Higher Value Addition in the Post-harvest Processes of the Rice Value Chain (ITEQ) Project, an initiative supported by the Government of Japan.

The trip sought to evaluate the extent to which recipients had implemented the training they received and the degree to which they were utilizing the equipment provided through the initiative.

The ITEQ Initiative, carried out in specific towns such as Bekwai and Tepa, aims to enhance the rice supply chain by embracing technology, strengthening quality assurance, and improving commercial methods.

Mr. Carl Makafui Acolatse, the Project Coordinator, stated that the recipients received thorough training organized by the FDA, with assistance from MoFA and UNIDO.

The program included contemporary methods of rice processing, storage techniques, cleanliness standards, packaging, and market-focused abilities aimed at enabling participants throughout the supply chain to expand their activities.

He pointed out that the ITEQ model aims to support farmers, millers, and retailers by providing them with the essential resources to update their processes, enhance product quality, and implement sustainable handling techniques.

"The evaluation enables us to assess the degree to which millers have enhanced their methods and how the latest technology is boosting their production," he added.

Two individuals from the Bekwai Municipality were given a rice destoner and a briquette-producing machine.

Although the destoner keeps the rice clean and free from stones, the briquette machine transforms rice husks into fuel, lowering expenses and encouraging eco-friendly practices.

Mr. Emmanuel Mensah, the Agricultural Director of Bekwai Municipality, stated that the area currently has 1,115 rice farmers growing a combined total of 660.5 hectares.

He observed that the ITEQ Project had greatly enhanced the capabilities of local millers and elevated the standard of locally produced rice.

Nevertheless, he highlighted ongoing issues, such as problems with land preparation, a lack of labor, expensive inputs, restricted availability of threshers, and challenges posed by pests and diseases that limited production.

During the inspection, Dr. Roseline Asi Amoah, the Chief Scientific Officer at the Ghana Standards Authority, emphasized the significance of soil testing in identifying metallic pollutants like mercury and lead, which are frequently linked to illegal mining activities (galamsey).

She cautioned that polluted soils affected the quality of rice and presented dangers to public health.

She also mentioned that microbial contamination might result in rice that appears chalky and white with a dusty texture, highlighting the importance of farmers using clean, premium planting materials to minimize these issues.

One of the recipients, Mr. Jephthah Kwame Osei, who owns the Sankofa Rice Processing Facility, stated that the equipment and training have greatly enhanced his production efficiency and product quality.

He further revealed that he had received FDA clearance for two items, among them the Yen Sankofa Cereals Legume Mix, with assistance from UNIDO.

He mentioned that improved activities allowed him to hire more young individuals within the local area.

As a token of gratitude, Mr. Osei awarded a certificate to UNIDO in acknowledgment of the organization's assistance in advancing his business.

GNA

Edited by Yussif Ibrahim and Christian Akorlie

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).