The Director of the Soil Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Dr Collins Tay, has expressed concern about the declining quality of soils in Ghana.
He described the country’s soils as moderately poor and called for urgent action to improve soil health and support agricultural production.
Speaking on JoyBusiness’ Agric Business Month programme on the Super Morning Show on Joy FM, Dr Tay assessed Ghana’s soil health on a scale of one to ten.
“I will say seven or eight because we are really struggling to get healthy soils in Ghana,” he said.
His assessment highlights growing concerns about the condition of agricultural lands across the country.
Dr Tay warned that poor soil health is becoming a major obstacle to increasing food production.
According to him, the shortage of fertile soils is affecting agricultural productivity and making it more difficult to address food insecurity.
“There is a lot we need to do as people when it comes to our soil resources conservation and management for improved agricultural productivity in Ghana, and for that matter, solve the food insecurity that we have,” he said.
He stressed that improving soil management practices is essential to ensuring sustainable food production.
Dr Tay urged policymakers and stakeholders to prioritise soil conservation and restoration efforts.
He said protecting soil health should form a key part of Ghana’s agricultural development strategy.
According to him, long-term investments and coordinated interventions are needed to restore soil fertility and strengthen the country’s food systems.
“Until we get back to the basics, where our soils in Ghana, especially the agricultural production soils, are given the necessary attention, we cannot fully solve the food production challenge in Ghana,” he said.
The CSIR director believes that improving soil health will play a critical role in boosting crop yields and enhancing food security.
He called for greater awareness of soil conservation practices and stronger support for programmes that promote sustainable land management.
Experts say healthy soils are essential for maintaining agricultural productivity, protecting the environment and ensuring long-term food security for future generations.
