The Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI) of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has commenced a regional training programme to equip African scientists with advanced crop improvement techniques.

The five-day training course on In Vitro and Mutagenesis Methods for Vegetatively Propagated Crops Breeding, aimed at enhancing food security across Africa, began on Monday, October 26, 2026, at the West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI), University of Ghana.

The programme is being conducted under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)-supported AFRA Project RAF5092, titled “Enhancing Agricultural Productivity for Improved Food Security in Africa”.

The training programme brought together experts and scientists from several African countries to build capacity in plant tissue culture, mutation breeding, and other modern crop improvement techniques.

In his welcome address, the Director-General of GAEC, Prof. Samuel Boakye Dampare, noted that over the years, BNARI has built significant expertise in mutation breeding, plant tissue culture, molecular biology, plant disease diagnostics and the conservation of valuable plant genetic resources.

“BNARI’s research demonstrates the practical value of these approaches. A notable achievement is Tek-Bankye, a cassava variety developed through mutation breeding research. Additionally, BNARI has contributed to the development and release of seven improved, yellow-fleshed mutant cassava varieties with enhanced beta-carotene content,” he explained.

He mentioned that BNARI has supported the introduction, multiplication and dissemination of the MD2 pineapple variety through tissue culture, alongside efforts to propagate and conserve other economically important crops including plantain and banana.

Prof. Dampare further highlighted BNARI’s designation as an IAEA Collaborating Centre in Plant Breeding and Genetics, describing it as a recognition of the Institute’s growing expertise and leadership in agricultural research.

“The designation of BNARI as an IAEA Collaborating Centre in Plant Breeding and Genetics recognises the Institute’s expertise and potential to advance regional training, collaborative research and technology transfer,” he added.

Addressing the challenges confronting African agriculture, Prof. Dampare noted that climate change, emerging crop diseases and the growing demand for nutritious food require innovative and collaborative research approaches.

He therefore encouraged participants to engage actively in the training, exchange experiences and build partnerships that would continue beyond the programme.

“The success of this training will be measured not merely by the knowledge acquired, but by its application and sharing within your institutions,” he noted.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the IAEA, Dr. Cinthya Zorrilla, representative of the Agency’s Plant Breeding and Genetics Sub-programme, reiterated the IAEA’s commitment to promoting the use of nuclear techniques in agriculture and other sectors including health, environmental management and industry.

She explained that the training forms part of the IAEA and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations’  Atoms4Food initiative, which seeks to provide comprehensive and multidisciplinary solutions to agricultural challenges.

She observed that mutation breeding should be considered a complementary tool alongside conventional breeding, gene editing and other crop improvement technologies.

“We are very glad to be able to deliver this training course. We expect that it is useful for your work,” she stated.

The Chairman of the GAEC Board, Prof. Abdulai Baba Salifu, who officially opened the training programme, took the opportunity to welcome the participants from across Africa and described the course as a “Pan-African programme” that reflects the collective commitment to addressing the continent’s food security challenges.

“We are happy that this is a regional programme, but I dare say this is a Pan-African programme,” Prof. Salifu said.

He observed that vegetatively propagated crops such as cassava, yam, plantain, banana and potatoes remain vital to the livelihoods of millions of African households but are often difficult to improve through conventional breeding methods.

According to him, mutation breeding offers a practical pathway for generating useful genetic variation while preserving desirable characteristics in existing varieties.

“By the end of this programme, you should be able to design a complete mutation breeding scheme for your own institution. The key is the knowledge you are going to gain here, not merely the certificate you will take away,” he added.

Prof. Salifu further encouraged participants to build lasting professional networks, collaborate across borders and continue exchanging ideas after the training to improve regional agricultural research and innovation efforts.

By: CPRC/CCD

 

The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has deepened scientific collaboration with leading French universities to address the environmental and public health impacts of illegal mining in Ghana.

The collaboration is being implemented under the NKABOM 2026 Mobility Research Grant, a programme administered by the French Embassy in Ghana to promote scientific exchange and deepen research cooperation between Ghana and France.

The initiative has brought together researchers from GAEC, the University of Lille, the University of Bordeaux, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, and the University of Ghana.

As part of the programme, Prof. Philippe Le Coustumer of the University of Bordeaux undertook a week-long visit to GAEC from October 22 to 28, 2026, where he held discussions with the Ghanaian counterparts at GAEC, focused on expanding scientific cooperation, building research capacity, and developing innovative solutions to environmental and socio-economic challenges facing mining communities.

The visit also highlighted the growing importance of international research partnerships in addressing the complex consequences of illegal artisanal gold mining, which continue to affect water resources, human health, livelihoods, and sustainable development across several regions of Ghana.

At the centre of the collaboration is a research project titled “Mining Illegal Networks: Environmental and Community Livelihood Assessment for Resilience.” It seeks to generate scientific evidence on the environmental and social impacts of illegal mining while identifying practical and sustainable interventions that can improve living conditions in affected communities.

The Director General of GAEC, Prof. Samuel Boakye Dampare, welcomed the collaboration and underscored the value of scientific research in addressing national development challenges.

“This partnership reflects GAEC’s commitment to leveraging science, technology and innovation to provide solutions to issues affecting communities and contribute to sustainable development,” he noted.

He further indicated that the outcomes of the study have the potential to inform drinking water policies and support Ghana’s efforts toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Dr. Andrews Obeng Affum, lead investigator of the Ghanaian research team and a scientist at the Environmental Resources Research Centre (ERRC), GAEC, noted that many communities in the Western, Western North and Eastern Regions continue to face serious challenges arising from heavy metal contamination of drinking water sources linked to illegal mining activities.

According to him, the research is expected to contribute to the development of affordable and locally adaptable water treatment solutions, including plant-based coagulants, capable of improving water quality and reducing the incidence of waterborne diseases and other chronic health conditions associated with contaminated water sources.

“Beyond its environmental and health dimensions, the project is expected to deliver significant socio-economic benefits by supporting safer water access, protecting livelihoods, and strengthening the resilience of vulnerable communities. The findings are also expected to provide evidence-based recommendations to support national policy interventions and sustainable resource management strategies,” he added.

He indicated that discussions on future areas of collaboration between GAEC and French institutions, including postgraduate training, sandwich PhD programmes, researcher exchanges, and joint research projects were underway.

“Plans are underway for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between GAEC and the University of Lille to formalise and expand the partnership,” he said.

Prof. Le Coustumer, during his engagement with researchers, delivered a presentation on emerging opportunities for collaboration with European research institutions, particularly in the area of microplastics research, a field of growing global interest due to its implications for environmental sustainability and public health.

Additionally, the Principal Investigator (PI) of the French research team, Prof. Arnaud Gauthier of the University of Lille, joined the discussions virtually, engaging with the local project team on ongoing activities and future directions of the collaboration. The meeting was held in the presence of Prof. Philippe Le Coustumer, who is leading the French delegation’s visit to Ghana.

The Ghanaian research team is led by Dr. Andrews Obeng Affum and comprises Dr. Michael Doleku of the CSIR-Water Research Institute, Prof. Gloria Ivy Mensah of the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Dr. David Saka of the Isotope Hydrology Centre, GAEC and Prof. Aaron Kobina Christian of the Regional Institute for Population Studies, University of Ghana.

The French team is led by Prof. Arnaud Gauthier of the University of Lille and includes Prof. Philippe Le Coustumer of the University of Bordeaux.

The facilitation of this exchange of expertise, knowledge and technology between researchers in both countries is expected to advance scientific innovation, strengthen research capacity, and contribute to socio-economic development in Ghana and France.

By: CPRC/CCD

 

 

The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has organized an orientation programme for its 2026/2027 National Service Personnel to equip them with the knowledge and information needed to work effectively within the Commission.

The orientation programme provided the personnel with an introduction to the Commission’s mandate, institutional structure and research environment to facilitate their effective integration into GAEC.

Addressing the participants, the Director of Human Resource of GAEC, Mr. Lord O. Yeboah, welcomed the personnel and encouraged them to approach their service year with dedication, professionalism and a willingness to learn.

He urged them to take advantage of the opportunities available at the Commission to develop their skills and contribute meaningfully to work at GAEC.

Facilitators from various Departments and Centers of GAEC provided the personnel with a comprehensive overview of the Commission’s operations and workplace expectations. The sessions covered GAEC’s vision, mission and core values, administrative procedures, institutional policies, research activities, workplace etiquette and professional conduct. In addition, the participants were also introduced to the Commission’s ICT systems and cybersecurity requirements, safety and security procedures, and the importance of punctuality, discipline, teamwork, integrity and adherence to organizational regulations.

They were further encouraged to uphold the values of the institution and serve as responsible ambassadors of the Commission.

The facilitation team comprised the Deputy Director of Human Resources, Mrs. Emefa Awudi-Depkeh; the Manager of the Communication and Public Relations Centre (CPRC), Dr. Mark Kwasi Sarfo; the ICT Manager, Mr. Augustus Buckman; the Head of Security, Captain Osei Akoto; the Head of the Counselling and Pensions Centre of the Human Resource Directorate, Ms. Mercy Amuasi; the Ag. Manager of the Data Administration, Training and Development Centre of the Human Resource Directorate, Mr. Anthony Gyan Osae; and the Administrator of the Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute (RAMSRI), Ms. Joyce Talata Akolmoga.

They shared insights from their respective areas of responsibility to prepare the personnel for a successful and productive service year

The orientation forms part of GAEC’s commitment to preparing National Service Personnel for effective service by equipping them with the knowledge, skills and professional values required to contribute meaningfully to the Commission’s research, administrative and support functions. They were also encouraged to demonstrate professionalism, integrity and commitment while taking advantage of the learning and networking opportunities available within the Commission.

By: CPRC/CCD

The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) held its second staff durbar for 2026 on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at the GAEC Auditorium to update employees on key institutional developments and engage them on matters affecting the Commission.

Addressing the members of staff of the Commission, the Director General of GAEC, Prof. Samuel B. Dampare, provided updates on major projects and initiatives, including progress on the building of the Atomic Conference Centre and the GAEC Housing Units.

The Director of Administration, Mr. William Srekumah, also briefed staff on issues relating to salary negotiations and attitude towards work.

The durbar further featured a presentation by psychologist Ms. Lady Justina Owu-Agyiri, who spoke on alcoholism and its effects on personal well-being and workplace productivity.

The programme concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, providing members of staff with the opportunity to seek clarification and share concerns on issues of interest.

The following photo gallery is from the event.

By: CPRC/CCD

The Radiation Protection Institute (RPI) of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has organised the Second National Training Course on Radiation Protection and Safety in Medical Radiological Applications for 2026.

The five-day training programme, aimed at strengthening radiation safety capacity among healthcare professionals and promoting the safe use of radiation technologies in medical practice, is being held from October 26 to 30, 2026, at the Ghana Research Reactor 1 (GHARR 1) Training Facility, GAEC, Kwabenya, Accra.

The programme has brought together radiographers, radiologists, medical physicists, biomedical engineers, X-ray technicians, radiation protection officers, and other healthcare professionals from across the country.

The course, under the direction of the Deputy Director of RPI, Prof. Stephen Inkoom and coordinated by the Acting Manager of the Radiation Protection Training and Consultancy Centre (RPTCC) of RPI,, Dr. Kofi O. Akyea-Larbi, seeks to enhance participants’ knowledge and practical skills in radiation protection, safety management, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance in medical radiological applications

The Director-General of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), Prof. Samuel Boakye Dampare, in a speech read on his behalf by his Deputy, Prof. Francis Hasford, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to human resource development in the peaceful application of ionising radiation, describing it as a key pillar of Ghana’s socio-economic development and healthcare advancement.

“GAEC attaches great importance to human resources development in the peaceful applications of ionizing radiation in medicine and other applications and considers it as one of the priority areas for the socio-economic development of Ghana,” he stated.

Prof. Dampare noted that advances in medical technologies have expanded the use of ionising radiation in diagnostic imaging, interventional radiology, nuclear medicine and radiotherapy, creating new opportunities for improving healthcare outcomes while increasing the need for robust radiation protection measures.

He observed that the Radiation Protection Institute has played a critical role in supporting the safe application of radiation technologies through training, research and technical services, thereby contributing significantly to national development.

The Director-General commended the management and staff of the Institute, as well as the facilitators, for their dedication to building national expertise in radiation protection and safety.

“It is my fervent hope that the objectives of the training course will be fully achieved by the end of the course to the deep satisfaction of both lecturers and participants,” he said.

He encouraged participants to fully engage with the programme and apply the knowledge gained to strengthen radiation safety practices in their institutions.

“I urge the participants to avail themselves of the opportunity presented them and, with determination and commitment, become fully acquainted with current and relevant issues of radiation protection and safety in medicine. More importantly, be able to impart knowledge to your colleagues at your respective hospitals, clinics and workplaces,” he added.

Prof. Dampare expressed confidence that the training would contribute to improving patient protection, occupational safety and regulatory compliance across Ghana’s healthcare system while reinforcing a culture of professionalism among practitioners.

In his welcome address, the Director of the Radiation Protection Institute (RPI), Dr. Eric. T. Glover, highlighted the growing importance of radiation protection in modern healthcare as the use of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies continues to expand.

“The medical use of ionizing radiation has expanded with advanced technology, opening new horizons to diagnostics and interventional radiology, nuclear medicine and radiotherapy. While this has improved patient care, inappropriate or unsafe handling of radiation technology can also pose potential health risks for both patients and health workers. There is therefore the need to maximize the benefits while minimizing the harms,” he said

Dr. Glover noted that the Institute provides technical services in radiation protection and safety and conducts research and safety assessments to support the safe use of radiation technologies throughout the country.

He announced that the 2026 National Training Course on Radiation Protection and Safety in Medical Radiological Applications had been accredited with ten Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points by the Allied Health Professions Council (AHPC), Ghana.

He urged participants to serve as ambassadors of radiation safety and professionalism in their respective workplaces.

Providing a technical overview of the programme, the Deputy Director of the Radiation Protection Institute and Course Director, Prof. Stephen Inkoom, said the training was designed to equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to minimise radiation exposure, assess risks and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

He explained that participants would receive training in key areas including radiation protection, patient dose assessment, quality assurance, MRI safety and national regulatory requirements.

“Achieving clear diagnostic images while minimising exposure remains a major challenge. The goal is optimisation, not compromise. Every optimised scan is a win for patient safety and a proof of our commitment to the ALARA principle, keeping radiation as low as reasonably achievable,” he added.

He further emphasised the importance of effective communication with patients regarding the benefits and risks associated with radiological procedures and expressed confidence that participants would leave the programme better equipped to implement best practices and promote radiation safety in their workplaces.

“For the first time in the history of the Training, a Guest Facililator in the person of Dr. Prince K. Gyekye, Director of Radiological and Non-Ionising Installations Directorate at the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA) and Lecturer at the School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences, University of Ghana will make a presentation on National Regulatory Requirements for Control of Radiation Sources (NRA Act 895 of 2025) to the participants,” he added.

Also in attendance was the communications team of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, led by Dr. Mark Kwasi Sarfo.

By: CPRC/CCD

The Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI) of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has marked World Food Day 2026 with a seminar on the role of scientific research in improving food security and nutrition in Ghana.

The event, held under the theme “Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow,” brought together researchers and scientists to discuss food preservation, the nutritional value of indigenous foods, and the development of food products that support health and address malnutrition.

In his opening remarks, BNARI Director Prof. Michael Osae said food security requires more than increased agricultural production. He called for a holistic approach that guarantees access to nutritious and affordable food for all.

“We must make sure that there is accessible, affordable and nutritious diet on the table for everybody,” Prof. Osae said.

“Post-harvest losses and resource degradation continue to test the resilience of agriculture across every continent. However, this celebration is not merely about identifying these challenges; it is about celebrating our capacity to solve them,” he added

He said that promoting underutilised indigenous foods could improve nutrition and food accessibility despite their declining presence in local markets. He cited snake tomato, which when ripe can substitute for conventional tomatoes in preparing tomato paste.

He encouraged food scientists and researchers to develop recipes and value-added products from neglected crops to increase consumer interest and market demand.

Dr. Dora Duah-Bisiw, a Food Research Scientist at BNARI’s Radiation Technology Centre, spoke on the nutritional benefits of indigenous vegetables. She emphasised innovative preservation methods to ensure vegetable availability beyond peak harvesting periods.

According to her, drying and dehydration offer practical solutions for extending shelf life, reducing waste and ensuring year-round availability. Also, she said that processing vegetables into powdered and other convenient forms could make them easier to incorporate into meals, particularly for children and older adults who may have difficulty chewing certain vegetables.

She identified carrots, turkey berries (Kwahu Nsusuwa), eggplant leaves (Boma) and amaranth leaves (Alefu) as rich sources of iron, zinc and calcium, which contribute to healthy growth, stronger immunity and proper bone development. She encouraged parents and caregivers to include more locally available vegetables in family meals.

Ms. Abena Akyaa Okyere, a Research Scientist with BNARI, discussed the potential of African palm weevil larvae as a source of micronutrients in school meals to help address malnutrition among school-age children in Ghana.

She said a study, conducted as part of her doctoral research, found that the larvae possess a rich micronutrient profile and enjoy high acceptability among communities where they are traditionally consumed.

“The takeaway from the research is that African palm weevil larvae have a high micronutrient profile, and they have high acceptability in communities where the research was conducted,” Ms. Okyere said.

She called for increased production and consumption of the larvae and urged the government to support small-scale processors by making appropriate production technologies more accessible.

Dr. Jolene Nyarko, Head of Nutrition at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), explored the potential of disease-specific food products in managing various health conditions.

She said mushrooms can serve as a healthy dietary option for managing blood pressure, herbal teas may support hypertension management through their diuretic properties, and edible insects can contribute to improving micronutrient intake.

“We should look at the foods we are eating and curate them to promote health. Indigenous mushrooms, for instance, offer a nutritious and low-fat alternative source of protein. We must also explore and promote our local food resources as part of efforts to adopt healthier dietary practices,” she said.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Stella Agyemang Dua, a Research Scientist at BNARI’s Radiation Technology Centre, urged researchers and stakeholders to embrace biotechnology, data-driven innovations and modern food processing methods to minimise food losses and enhance food security.

She called on the government to empower smallholder farmers, support women and youth, and create opportunities for their active participation in building resilient and sustainable agri-food systems.

By: CPRC/CCD

Scientists from the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) and the European Council for Nuclear Research (CERN) have deepened their technical cooperation, with a focus on accelerator research, radiation protection, advanced computing, education and technology transfer.

The collaboration was highlighted during a visit to GAEC by Dr. Martin Gastal, an applied physicist and Advisor to the European Council for Nuclear Research. He was accompanied by Dr. Diane Brami, Attaché for Scientific and Higher Education Cooperation at the French Embassy in Ghana.

Discussions were held with Management and researchers on opportunities for partnerships, training and capacity building. The visit forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Ghana’s participation in cutting-edge scientific research and innovation in collaboration with CERN.

It is also part of a broader programme of engagements spearheaded by the French Embassy in Ghana, including meetings with the Ministries of Communication and Education, as well as the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

Dr. Gastal, who has worked at CERN for more than two decades, said he sees significant areas of synergy with the work being undertaken by scientists at GAEC.

“CERN is the largest laboratory in the world for particle physics research, and we have a lot of activities that are completely in synergy with what you do, whether it is radiation protection, accelerator technologies, space applications and education,” he said.

He noted that discussions with Ghanaian stakeholders had reinforced the potential for expanding scientific cooperation for mutual benefit.

“I was with the French Ambassador and we focused on GAEC because GAEC can be one of our main partners in science. We spoke about nuclear science, space science and a number of other collaborative initiatives,” he added.

Dr. Gastal also highlighted ongoing collaborations with other Ghanaian institutions and encouraged GAEC researchers to take advantage of available programmes.

“We are always open to collaboration. Universities and research institutions that are proactive can benefit from internships, student exchanges, research projects and other opportunities within the CERN ecosystem,” he said.

Welcoming the duo, Director-General of GAEC, Prof. Samuel Boakye Dampare, said the visit presents an opportunity for both institutions to explore mutually beneficial areas of collaboration.

“We are grateful to you for bringing Martin here. I think there is a lot that we can do together. Looking at what CERN has been doing and what GAEC has also been doing, let us see how best we can explore the opportunities for collaboration,” he said.

The Director-General observed that several of CERN’s areas of expertise align closely with GAEC’s research priorities, including radiation protection, medical applications of nuclear science and technology, environmental research, radioactive waste management, instrumentation and emerging technologies.

As part of the interactions, the Director of Commercialisation and Communication at GAEC, Nana Boateng, explained the activities of GAEC and their socioeconomic importance to Ghana and the subregion in a presentation.

He also noted that the meeting provided an opportunity for both institutions to showcase their capabilities, exchange ideas and explore collaborations that could enhance accelerator science and related research activities in Ghana.

“We will tour GAEC’s accelerator facilities for you to gain a better appreciation of the Commission’s research infrastructure and ongoing work in the field,” he added.

The engagement reflects GAEC’s ongoing efforts to build strategic international partnerships that would enhance the Commission’s research capacity while positioning Ghana as a leader in global scientific initiatives.

In attendance were the Director of the Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute (GSSTI), Dr. Joseph Tandoh; Deputy Director of the National Nuclear Research Institute (NNRI), Prof. Dennis Adotey; Deputy Director of the Radiation Protection Institute (RPI), Prof. Stephen Inkoom; Deputy Director of the Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI), Prof. Samuel Amiteye; Deputy Director of Administration, Mr. Emmanuel Kusi Addo; Deputy Director of the Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute (RAMSRI), Prof. Edem Sosu; Deputy Director of the Nuclear Power Institute (NPI), Dr. Charles Kofi Klutse; Manager of the Communication and Public Relations Centre (CPRC), Dr. Mark Kwasi Sarfo; Manager of the Accelerator Research Centre (ARC), Dr. Hyacinthe Ahiamadjie; and Dr. Christian Nuviadenu, Senior Research Scientist.

By: CPRC/CCD

 

The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), through the School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences (SNAS), hosted the West African commemoration of the 2026 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction in Accra on Wednesday.

The event, held at the SNAS Conference Hall under the theme, “Building Resilience at Home: The Key to a Safer Household,” brought together disaster management agencies, scientists, policymakers, development partners and stakeholders from across West Africa to promote disaster risk reduction across the region through preparedness and resilience at the household and community levels.

Participants included representatives of the Ghana National Fire Service, Ghana Police Service, Ghana Red Cross Society, Ghana Geological Survey Authority and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), as well as members of academia and civil society organisations.

The event was organised through a collaboration led by the School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (SNAS-GAEC), together with the Africa Science and Technology Advisory Group on Disaster Risk Reduction (AfSTAG-DRR), the Africa Youth Advisory Board (AYAB) on Disaster Risk Reduction in West Africa, the African Union, and the African Partnership Enhancing Discourse and Advocacy for Disaster Risk Reduction (APEDA).

The programme, supported with funding from APEDA and the African Union Commission, was coordinated by Prof. Paulina Amponsah, Chief Research Scientist, SNAS; Prof. Joseph Fianko, Dean, SNAS; Prof. David Kpeglo, Vice Dean, SNAS; and Dr. Amos Forson, Head of the Department, Nuclear Science and Applications, SNAS, whose efforts helped bring together key stakeholders to discuss practical strategies for strengthening disaster preparedness and resilience across the sub-region.

In his welcome address, the Director-General of GAEC, Prof. Samuel B. Dampare, underscored the importance of empowering households and communities to better respond to emergencies and disasters.

He noted that while governments and institutions have critical roles to play, resilience ultimately begins with informed and prepared individuals and families.

“Are we aware of the risks around us? Do we understand early warnings? Do our families know what to do in an emergency? Are our homes and communities adequately prepared?” he asked.

Prof. Dampare noted that strengthening resilience begins with awareness and informed decision-making. He emphasised the need for continuous public education, community sensitisation and practical measures that enable families to respond effectively to emergencies.

Additionally, he observed that West Africa continues to face a range of hazards, including flooding, coastal erosion, landslides, fires, road accidents, conflicts and environmental degradation, necessitating the need for coordinated and proactive approaches to disaster risk reduction.

He also highlighted the contributions of science, technology and innovation to disaster risk management, noting that advances in research and early warning systems can help communities anticipate hazards and take timely action before disasters occur.

“Building resilience requires more than responding when disaster strikes. It demands continuous public education, community sensitisation and capacity building to equip individuals, institutions and communities to anticipate, prepare for and respond effectively to emergencies,” he said.

On his part, the Chairman of the GAEC Governing Board, Prof. Abdulai Baba Salifu, emphasised that resilience is fundamental to human security and sustainable development and noted that resilient households form the foundation of resilient communities and nations, making disaster risk reduction a shared responsibility that extends beyond emergency response agencies.

“Resilience lies at the very heart of human security, and strong households, supported by effective institutions and coordinated public action, are essential to reducing disaster risks,” he said.

Prof. Salifu urged a transition from emergency response-centred approaches to preventive risk management.

“Investments in awareness creation, resilient infrastructure and institutional preparedness remain essential to safeguarding lives and supporting sustainable development,” he added.

He further underscored the importance of collective responsibility and how effective disaster risk reduction depended on strong partnerships among government agencies, academia, emergency responders, development partners and local communities.

The keynote speaker, Emeritus Prof. Jacob Songsore, drew attention to the role of households as the building blocks of resilient communities. He argued that preparedness efforts are most effective when they are rooted in everyday practices within homes and neighborhoods.

Emeritus Prof. Songsore also said that resilience is shaped not only by national policies and institutional frameworks but also by individual responsibility, household dynamics and community-level leadership.

“The level of the household, the level of the individual responsibility, and the level of domestic governance and power relations all play a critical role,” he stated.

He  further emphasised that resilience cannot be imposed from the top down but must be supported through the active participation of households, local authorities, emergency response agencies and development partners working together towards a shared goal of safer communities.

“Embrace disaster risk reduction as a continuous process that requires commitment and preparedness at every level of society,” he added.

The programme featured goodwill messages from participants from Benin, Nigeria, The Gambia and Senegal in solidarity with Ghana and to stress the importance of regional cooperation in addressing shared disaster risks.

It also included keynote presentations, technical sessions, panel discussions and stakeholder engagements focused on disaster preparedness, risk communication, emergency response coordination, community resilience and sustainable development. The discussions provided a valuable platform for participants to exchange experiences, share best practices and explore practical strategies for strengthening household preparedness and enhancing institutional collaboration across the sub-region.

The event was attended by Directors, Deputy Directors, Managers, scientists and staff of GAEC, as well as students of the School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences and pupils of the GAEC Basic School, whose participation underscored the importance of cultivating disaster awareness and preparedness among future generations.

The commemoration concluded with a renewed call for individuals, families, institutions and policymakers to make disaster preparedness an integral part of everyday life.

By: CPRC/CCD

 

The Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, Hon. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has urged the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) to strengthen public awareness of its role in national development.

She made the call during a working visit to GAEC, where she engaged Management on the Commission’s activities, achievements, operational challenges and future development plans.

According to the Minister, many people remain unaware of GAEC’s impact on healthcare, agriculture, environmental protection and other critical sectors of the Ghanaian economy, underscoring the need for increased public awareness of the Commission’s work and relevance.

The Minister stated that GAEC’s work extends beyond nuclear research into critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, mining and environmental protection, making it important for the public to better appreciate the Commission’s mandate and contributions.

She highlighted the application of nuclear science and related technologies in medical diagnostics, treatment, radiation monitoring, water testing, mining and environmental assessment. She noted that greater public understanding of these applications would enhance appreciation of the Commission’s role in improving lives and supporting economic growth.

“I feel that the public should get to know a little bit more about who you are and what you do because your work contributes to various sectors of the economy,” she said.

The Minister acknowledged the challenge of retaining the specialised expertise required to support the country’s ambitions in nuclear science and technology.

“The field that you occupy is very specialised, and it takes an average of at least 15 years to develop someone to a level where they can make meaningful contributions in this field and do something for Ghana. We should therefore do our utmost to retain such highly skilled persons within our jurisdiction,” she added.

She said that as Ghana advances its plans to deploy nuclear power, investment in infrastructure must be matched by investment in human resource development and retention.

The Minister further assured Management that discussions would continue to address the Commission’s challenges, including concerns about staff attrition and the support required to enhance its operations.

Welcoming the Minister and her delegation, the Director-General of GAEC, Prof. Samuel Boakye Dampare, expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a great opportunity to showcase the Commission’s achievements, discuss operational challenges and explore areas requiring government support.

“Your visit provides an important opportunity for us to showcase the impact of nuclear science and related technologies in addressing national development challenges and to share our vision for the future,” he stated.

He reaffirmed GAEC’s commitment to advancing scientific research and applying nuclear science and technology to address national development priorities, particularly in food security, healthcare, environmental protection and nuclear energy development.

As part of the engagement, the Director of the Commercialisation and Communication Directorate (CCD), Nana Boateng, presented an overview of GAEC’s research achievements, facilities, commercial services and ongoing projects.

The Director stated that GAEC, through its Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI), continues to make significant contributions to food security and sustainable agriculture through the application of nuclear and related technologies.

“BNARI has developed nine improved cassava varieties, including Vitamin A-rich varieties, and distributed 10,000 cassava planting materials to farmers to support increased agricultural productivity and improved nutrition,” he said.

He added that advances in tissue culture, mutation breeding, genome editing and smart agriculture were helping to improve crop yields and support national food security efforts.

Highlighting the Commission’s impact on healthcare and radiation science, the Director noted that GAEC continues to support research into major public health challenges, including cancer and malaria.

“GAEC currently operates a nationwide radiation monitoring network with more than 1,000 base stations and has trained 30 medical physicists from 13 African countries, reinforcing Ghana’s position as a regional hub for nuclear science education and capacity building,” he stated.

The Director further disclosed that approximately 2,000 occupationally exposed persons are monitored annually to ensure compliance with radiation safety standards.

On future developments, Nana Boateng outlined several strategic projects aimed at enhancing research capacity, service delivery and commercialisation.

“Key projects currently being pursued by the Commission include the establishment of an Electron-Beam (E-Beam) Irradiation Facility, the expansion of the genome-editing laboratory, refurbishment of the Secondary Standard Dosimetry Laboratory, the development of an Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence and initiatives towards the local production of medical radioisotopes,” he revealed.

The visit concluded with a tour of selected facilities, including the Personnel Dosimetry Laboratory, Radon Laboratory, Secondary Standard Dosimetry Laboratory (SSDL) and Simulator Training centre, providing the Minister with firsthand insight into the technologies and facilities underpinning GAEC’s contributions to national development.

By: CPRC/CCD

The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has highlighted the contribution of nuclear science and related technologies to healthcare, agriculture, radiation safety and scientific development in Ghana.

The Commission outlined its work during a visit by the Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, as part of her working tour of agencies under the Ministry.

The engagement provided an opportunity for the Commission’s leadership and technical personnel to brief the Minister on its mandate, research activities, achievements and challenges requiring attention.

Officials explained that the Commission’s responsibilities extend beyond atomic energy to include scientific research, training, technical services and the commercialisation of research outcomes.

In healthcare, GAEC highlighted its work in radiation monitoring, cancer-related research and medical physics training.

Officials reported that the institution had monitored more than 1,000 breast cancer patients and over 2,000 occupational radiation workers.

The Commission also reported training more than 30 medical physicists from 13 African countries, contributing to the development of specialised expertise within Ghana and across the continent.

These activities form part of the institution’s broader contribution to radiation safety, scientific research and the application of nuclear technology in medical services.

Despite its achievements, the Commission identified several challenges affecting its operations, including inadequate research funding, high electricity costs, outdated laboratory equipment and difficulties retaining skilled personnel.

Officials outlined plans to establish a secondary standard dosimetry laboratory to support the calibration of instruments used in hospitals and other radiation-related applications.

The Commission also proposed an artificial intelligence centre of excellence to improve the use of data generated through its scientific activities.

Another priority is the development of domestic medical radioisotope production capacity for applications including cancer treatment and nuclear medicine.

Officials indicated that additional financial resources would be required to advance these projects and modernise existing facilities.

The retention of highly trained personnel was also raised as a concern, with the Commission highlighting the time and resources required to develop specialists capable of undertaking advanced scientific research and technical work.

LAND SECURITY AND PUBLIC SAFETY

Land encroachment around sensitive facilities featured prominently in the discussions.

The Commission expressed concern about activities near its radiation waste management centre, highlighting the need to protect the area against developments that could compromise security and safety.

The Minister emphasised the importance of protecting public assets and maintaining appropriate safety arrangements around nuclear-related facilities.

Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings assured the agencies under her Ministry that their concerns would be considered, while noting that any support would have to be assessed against available resources.

The visit formed part of her broader engagement with the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, the National Biosafety Authority and the Nuclear Regulatory Authority.

The discussions highlighted the importance of sustained investment in scientific research, modern infrastructure and specialist personnel to enable Ghana to maximise the benefits of science and technology for national development.

Source: radiogoldlive.com