On the 17th of August, 2023, the National Seed Trade Association of Ghana (NASTAG) successfully conducted a virtual Zoom webinar aimed at enlightening seed industry stakeholders on the content and the implications of the Seed Certification and Standards Regulation L.I 2363, specifically concerning seed packaging materials. The webinar served as a platform to provide valuable insights into the legal aspects of seed packaging materials and their significance for businesses in the seed industry.
The webinar was moderated by Dr. Amos Rutherford Azinu, President of NASTAG. He opened the webinar by highlighting the critical role that seed packaging materials play in ensuring the integrity and quality of seeds. He emphasized the need for adherence to regulatory standards to build consumer trust and enhance the credibility of businesses in the seed trade industry.
Mr. Kwasi Wih, Head of GSID, made a presentation as the guest speaker for the event based on his indept understanding of the regulatory landscape with respect to the legal provisions enshrined in the L.I; providing a comprehensive overview of L.I. 2363, with much emphasise on the clauses related to seed packaging materials. He elucidated the regulations governing the type, quality, labelling, and information required on packaging materials. Through real-world examples and case studies, Mr. Wih underscored the implications of non-compliance, which ranges from legal consequences to reputational damage.
Following the presentation, participants engaged in an interactive Q&A session. This segment provided opportunity for clarification of doubts and further insights into specific scenarios faced by businesses in the seed industry. Participants also called for future webinars to discuss other relevant issues, topics and areas within the sector.
The Zoom webinar was a huge success with over 70 participants joining. It proved to be a valuable platform for seed industry stakeholders to deepen their understanding of the Seed Certification and Standards Regulation L.I 2363, particularly concerning seed packaging materials. The event reinforced the importance of adhering to regulatory standards to ensure the quality seeds and integrity of seed companies in building sustainable and responsible businesses.
In a concluding message by the CEO, Mrs Augusta Nyamadi – Clottey, expressed her appreciation to all for their contribution to making the webinar a success with special gratitude to Mr. Kwasi Wih as the speaker for the day and patiently responding to questions as they came up in the discussion.
She assured participants that, the Association remains committed to the fostering knowledge sharing and industry collaboration for the betterment of the Ghana private seed sector actors.
It is envisaged that such webinars would be held on quarterly basis to enhance industry players understanding of the Seed policy documents whiles using the opportunity to address pertinent issues relating to the industry.
