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BIOTECHNOLOGY AND NUCLEAR AGRICULTURE RESEARCH INSTITUTE (BNARI)

ANNUAL REPORT

JANUARY – DECEMBER 2014

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1.0. A Profile of Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI)

1.1. Brief History

The Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI) was established in 1993 as one

of the research, and technology transfer institutes of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, which was

established in 1963 by an act of Parliament (Act 204 of 1963). Under the Act 588 of 2000 (which

replaced Act 204 and PNDC Law 308), the Commission is empowered to create new institutes and

commercialize its research findings. The Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute

(BNARI) was therefore established, in line with the new Act 588 of 2000, by upgrading the then

Department of Biology, Food and Agriculture of the National Nuclear Research Institute. The main

objective of BNARI is to peacefully apply nuclear and related biotechnologies for increased agricultural

production, health, industrial and economic development for poverty alleviation in Ghana.

1.2. Vision

To be Ghana’s leading public Institution that provides solutions to challenges in agriculture, health and

industry through exploration and exploitation of scientific knowledge in biotechnology and nuclear

science.

1.3. Mission

BNARI exists to carry out research and development activities on safe applications of biotechnology and

nuclear science and transfer these technologies to end-users in order to enhance agricultural productivity,

health delivery and industrialization.

2.0. Centres of Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI)

BNARI is currently made up of a Technology Transfer Unit and five scientific centres, namely:

Biotechnology Centre (BTC)

Nuclear Agriculture Centre (NAC)

Radiation Entomology and Pest Management Centre (REPMC)

Radiation Technology Centre (RTC)

Soil and Environmental Sciences Research Centre (SESRC)

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Publication

Training

Library

ICT

ANIMAL Biotech Lab

food Biotech Lab

Plant Biotech Lab

Food and Medical

Lab

Polymers Lab

Dosimetry Lab

Animal science lab

Plant science lab

Soil science lab

Medical and

Veterinary Lab

Agric Ent. Lab

Socio - Economics

Extension Linkages

Commercialization

Administration

Accounts

2.1. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE OF BNARI

2.3. Staff Strength

GHANA ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION

BNARI MANAGEMENT BOARD

HEAD, FINANCE &

ADMINISTRATION

INTERNAL AUDIT

AND

PROCUREMENT

MANAGER,

BIOTECHNOLOGY

CENTRE

MANAGER,

RADIATION

TECHNOLOGY

CENTRE

MANAGER,

NUCLEAR

AGRICULTURE

CENTRE

MANAGER,

TECHNOLOGY

TRANSFER CENTRE

MANAGER,

RADIATION

ENTOMOLOGY &

PEST MGT CENTRE

DIRECTOR

DEPUTY DIRECTOR

BIOSAFETY SUPPORT SERVICES

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The staff of BNARI comprising of scientific, technologists/technicians as well as administrative

supporting staff are summarized in the tables below:

Table 2.3.1. Directorate

No. Name Qualification Specialisation Designation

1 Prof. Kenneth E. Danso Ph.D. Tissue

Culture/Biotechnology

Director

2 Dr. Daniel K. Asare Ph.D. Agronomy/Soil Science Deputy Director

3 Mr. Maxwell Nyarko MA Labour Policy studies and

Human Resource

Development

Administrator

4 Mr. Daniel Darko Asare MBA Accounting Accountant

5 Mr. Fidelis Dooda Derry MBA Finance Auditor

6 Mrs. Evelyn K. Duah BA Secretaryship/Human

Resource

Prin.Admin. Assist

7 Mr. Norbert Segbedzi BA Social Science Prin.Admin. Assist

8 Mr. Kingsley N. Asiedu RSA Stage II/GCE-

O-Level

Accounting Sen. Accounting

Assistant

9 Mr. Derek Appiah HND Accounting Senior accounting

Assistant

10 Eunice Adomaa WASSCE Library Library Assistant

11 Mr. Vincent Sackey City and Guild (UK) Electricals Technician

12 Mr. Kwadjo A. Okae Advanced Cert. In

Hardware and

Networking

Computer Hardware ICT Technician

13 Mr. John Boamah WASSCE Cleaner

14 Mr. David Otopeh M.S.L.C. Cleaner

Temporal staff

No. Name Institution Position

1 Francis Oti Boateng UG National Service Personnel

2 Awudjie Mordegatu UDS National Service Personnel

3 Felix Afrifa Asante UG National Service Personnel

Biotechnology Centre (BTC)

Table 2.3.2.1 Staff

No. Name Qualification Rank

1 Samuel Amiteye PhD Senior Research Scientist

2 Vivian Oduro PhD Research Scientist

3 Wilfred Elegba* MPhil Research Scientist

4 Elaine Azu* MPhil Research Scientist

5 Andrew Sarkodie-Appiah* MPhil Research Scientist

6 Nusrat Afful* MPhil Research scientist

7 Jonathan Amponsah MPhil Assistant Research Scientist

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8 Rosemary Kusi Adjei MPhil Assistant Research Scientist

9 Rhoda Gyinae Diawuoh MPhil Assistant Research Scientist

10 Abigail Asare MPhil Assistant Research Scientist

11 Doris Dzimega BSc Technologist

12 Alex Asumeng Higher Diploma U.K. Principal Technologist

13 Christian Akama Diploma in Agriculture Senior Technologist

14 Clement Annor Diploma in Agriculture Senior Technologist

15 Prince Buertey Kpentey HND Technologist

16 Robert Appiah BSc Technologist

17 Solomon Otu ‘O’ Level G.D.II Technologist

18 Elizabeth Amosah Stenographer Gd. II Principal Administrative Assist.

19 Emmanuel Ofosu SSSCE Technician

20 Kwame Asare NVTI GD.II / Industrial

Electricity P.I

Technician

21 Seth Asare Bediako SSSCE Production Assistant

22 Vida Adu Afrakomaa SSSCE Production Assistant

23 Comfort Dzamesi SSSCE Production Assistant

24 Patience Asare SSSCE Production Assistant

25 Samuel Azure SSSCE Gardener

2.3.2.2. Staff on study leave

No. Name of Officer Date Leave

Started

Date Leave will end Programme

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Elaine Azu

Wilfred Elegba

Andrew Sarkodie-

Appiah

Nusrat Afful

Patience Asare

January, 2013

September, 2013

January, 2013

September, 2014

May, 2014

December, 2017

August, 2016

February, 2017

October, 2017

August, 2016

PhD Programme

PhD Programme

PhD Programme

PhD Programme

HND (General

Agriculture)

2.3.2.3. Temporal Staff

No. Name University Position

1. Lois Kessewah UCC National Service Personnel

2. Henrietta Owusu KNUST National Service Personnel

3. Abigail D. Akoto UCC National Service Personnel

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Nuclear Agriculture Centre (NARC)

Table 2.3.3.1. Staff

No. Name Qualification Rank/Designation

1. Dr. Godwin Amenorpe Ph.D Senior Research Scientist

2. Mr. M. Yaro* M.Phil. Research Scientist

3. Mr. E. Q. Quartey M.Phil Research Scientist

4. Mr. J. Nunoo M.Phil Research Scientist

5. Mr. W. Nunukpeku M. Phil Research Scientist

6. Ms. M. Owusu-Ansah M.Phil Research Scientist

7. Mr. M. Quaynor-Addy SLT Higher Diploma (London) Chief Technologist

8. Mr. G. Damnyag Gen. Cert. in Agric. (Vet.) Chief Technician

9. Mr. M. Abive-Bortsi HND Senior Technologist

10. Mr. J. Kutufam Gen. Cert. in Agric. Principal Technician

11. Mr. A. Danso Cert. General Agric. Senior Farm Supervisor

12. Azure Akologo NIL Farm Overseer

13. Edward Aglago MSLC Assistant Overseer

14. Samuel Donkor MSLC Assistant Overseer

15. Kennedy Tetteh MSLC Assistant Overseer

16. Nii Otu Lartey JSS Assistant Farm Overseer

17. Abraham Tettey Cert., General Agric. Assistant Farm Overseer

18. Nehemiah B. Naamie JSS Assistant Farm Overseer

19. Jacob Azudaa - Tractor Operator

20. Yao Agbofa - Senior Headman

21. Fredrick Osae - Senior Headman

22. Mrs. Beatrice Bayala Stenographer Gd I Senior Admin. Assistant

23. Mr. McDonald A. Akramah GCE ‘O’ Level Deptmental Assistant Gd I

Temporal Staff

No. Name University Position

1 Eric Kwaku Agbotse UCC National Service Personnel

2 Nicholas Djanie UG National Service Personnel

3 Gabriel Akosah Brempong KNUST National Service Personnel

Staff promotions

Name New rank Previous rank Effective date

Maxwell Abive-Bortsi Principal Technician Senior Technician 1st January, 2014

Abraham Tetteh Farm Overseer Asst. Farm Overseer 1st January, 2014

Samuel Donkor Farm Overseer Asst. Farm Overseer 1st January, 2014

Staff on Study Leave

No, Name Date Leave Started Date Leave will end Programme

1 Mr. Mohammed Yaro October, 2014 September, 2017 PhD Animal Science

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Table 2.3.4. Radiation Entomology and Pest Management Centre

No. Name Qualification Rank

1. Dr. Prince Alexander Egyir Yawson PhD Research Scientist

2. Mr. Michael Yao Osae MPhil Research Scientist

5. Mr. Selorm K. Ofori MPhil Research Scientist

6. Mr. Simon Yeboah MPhil Assist. Research Scientist

7. Mr. Kwabena Ekene Nwaefuna BSc Technologist

8. Mr. Francis Apaatah BSc Technologist

9. Mr. Charles Asante G.C.E. O’ Level Principal Technician

10. Mr. Albert Nkumsah G.C.E. O’ Level Principal Technician

11. Mr. Frederick K. A. Abruquah DBS Senior Admin Assistant

12. Mr. Moses Asamoah Cert. in General Agric. Senior Farm Supervisor

13. Mr. Eben Tetteh Agbo HND/Diploma Technician

Table 2.3.5. Radiation Technology Centre (RTC)

No. Name Qualification Rank

1 Mr. A. Adu-Gyamfi M. Phil Principal Research Scientist

2 Mr. Fidelis Ocloo* M. Phil Senior Research Scientist

3 Mr. Franklin Apea Bah* M. Phil Research Scientist

4 Mr. Selorm Agbamavor M. Phil Research Scientist

5 Mrs. Mavis Owureku -Asare M. Phil Research Scientist

6 Mrs. J. Agyei Amponsah MPhil Research Scientist

7 Mr. Daniel Osei Ofosu M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

8 Mr. Bernard Darfour M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

9 Mr. Wellington Torgby-Tetteh M. Phil Research Scientist

10 Mr. Bernard Odai* M. Phil Research Scientist

11 Ms. Adjoa K. Sarfo M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

12 Ms. Leticia Amoakoah Twum M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

13 Mr. Isaac Kwabena Asare M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

14 Mr. Isaaac Delali Kottoh M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

15 Mr. Gabriel Kojo Frimpong M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

16 Mr. Emmanuel K. Gasu M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

17 Mrs. Abena Akyaa Okyere M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

18 Mrs. Dora Duah-Bissiw M. Phil Asst. Research Scientist

19 Mr. E. Quarcoo B. Sc Asst. Research Scientist

20 Mr John Apatey B. Sc Principal Technologist

21 Mr. John B. Adom-Mensah HND Technologist

22 Mr. Daniel Larbi HND Technologist

23 Mr. Sylvester Adjei HND Technologist

24 Mr. Sylvester Annan HND/Industrial Senior Technologist

25 Mr. Stanley A. Acquah HND (Lab Tech) Technologist

26 Mr. Jonathan Armah, HND (Lab Tech) Technologist

27 Mr. Nii Odartey Mills Diploma Technician

28 Ms Comfort Mensah GS 1 Administrative Assistant

29 Ms Sadia Moro Diploma Senior Clerk

30 Mr. Robert Kumi BECE Dept. Assist. G.III

31 Mr. Micheal Asebogo Apany - Snr. Herdsman

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Temporal staff

No. Name University/Polytechnic Position

1 Ms. Grace Norbi Accra Polytechnic National Service Personnel

2 Mr. Bright Nkansah National Service Personnel

Staff on study leave

No. Name of Officer Date Leave Started Date Leave will end Programme

1 Ms. Sadia Moro Sept. 2013 Sept. 2016 BA.

2 Mr. Bernard Odai Aug. 2013 July 2016 PhD.

3 Mr. Franklin Apea Bah Jan. 2012 Feb. 2015 PhD.

4 Fidelis C. K. Ocloo Sept. 2011 Sept. 2014 PhD.

Staff promotions

Name of Officer New Rank Previous Rank Effective date

Stanley Acquah Snr. Technologist Technologist May, 2014

Table 2.3.6. Soil and Environmental Science Resesearch Centre

No. Name Qualification Rank

1 Mr. Emmanuel Ofori Ayeh MPhil Research Scientist

2 Mr. Ebenezer A. Ewusie MSc. Research Scientist

3 Mr. Justice O. Frimpong* MPhil Research Scientist

4 Mr. Samuel Nettey MSc. Assistant Research Scientist

5 Mr. Samuel Odei BSc. Admin. Princ. Admn. Assit.

6 Mr. Joshua Sintim BSc. Senior Technologist

7 Mr. Martin Lolobi BSc. Technologist

8 Mrs. Rita Takyi Lartey BSc. Technologist

9 Mr. Ben Offei HND Lab. Tech Technologist

10 Mr. Eben Agbo Tetteh Dip. Gen Agric. Technician

11 Mr. Kwasi Asare MLSC Labourer

12 Mr. Sampson Laar - Labourer

13 Mr. Amenope Stephen B.E.C.E Farm Hand

14 Mr. Gideon C.N. Bayor B.E.C.E Farm Hand

Temporal Staff

No. Name University/Polytechnic Position

1 Joseph Appiah UG Attachment

2 Essel Benedicta KNUST National Service Personnel

3 Richard Larbi UCEW National Service Personnel

4 Agyeman Prempeh Yeboah Accra Polytechnic National Service Personnel

5 Mensah Jacob Jnr. UDS National Service Personnel

6 Boakye-Ansah Shirley KNUST National Service Personnel

7 Abdul Suraj UG National Service Personnel

8 Boakye Kobbiah Kalmer KNUST National Service Personnel

9 Richard Dwamena UDS National Service Personnel

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Staff on study Leave

No, Name Date Leave Started Date Leave will end Programme

1 Mr. Justice Okona Frimpong October, 2014 PhD

Table 2.3.7. Technology Transfer Unit

No. Name Qualification Rank

1 Isaac Baidoo M. Phil Research Scientist

2 Mr. Ebenezer Kondo B.Sc Technologist

3.0 Summary Fiancial Report

3.1. Income and Expenditure

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5.0. RESEARCH ACTIVITIES AT BIOTECHNOLOGY AND NUCLEAR AGRICULTURE

INSTITUTE

5.1. BIOTECHNOLOGY CENTRE

5.1.1. Multiplication and Conservation of Sweetpotato Clones Generated through Conventional

Hybridization

Research team: Vivian Oduro, Godwin Amernope, Samuel Amiteye, Marcus Addy, Abraham Danso and

Kutufam

ABSTRACT

Farmers in Ghana have indicated their preference for low sugar, high dry matter and high β-carotene

sweetpotato cultivars. Eleven (11) suitable Sweetpotato parents were therefore used to generate progenies

in 2013. These sweetpotato progenies were then multiplied between January and June 2014 to generate

enough planting material for field trial. Six hundred (600) of these sweetpotato were planted of which

about 200 generated enough vines for yield and quality assessment on the field.

5.1.2. Evaluating Thirty Sweetpotato Genotypes for Yield, Dry Matter, Sugar and Beta-Carotene

Research Team: Vivian Oduro, Godwin Amernope, Samuel Amiteye, Marcus Addy, Abraham Danso,

and Kutufam

ABSTRACT

Sweetpotato is important in the Central, Volta and Upper East regions of Ghana, where it is both a cash

and food security crop. Its importance as a cash crop is also gaining popularity momentum farmers in

other parts of the country. In spite of this, sweetpotato improvement in Ghana is still at its infancy.

Improvement attempts have largely focused on adaptive trials of varieties developed elsewhere without

input from Ghanaian farmers. A survey conducted in 2011 indicated that farmers prefer low sugar

varieties with high dry matter content and appreciable levels of β-carotene. Progenies from sweetpotato

crosses carried out in 2013 were, therefore, evaluated for yield, dry matter, sugar and β-carotene.

Significant differences were identified between sweetpotato genotypes. There were also significant

(P>0.0001) correlations between both agronomic and quality traits studied. Yield ranged from 4.01t/ha –

19.25t/ha. Total sugars, dry matter and β-carotene ranged between 25.92 - 43.57%, 31.29 - 41.89% and

9.11 - 27.42% respectively. Fifteen sweetpotato genotypes with desirable combination of the traits of

interest have been selected for further evaluation. These selected clones have yields and β-carotene levels

higher than the check variety. Their mean sugar content is higher than that of the check while their mean

dry matter is lower than the check variety. However some individual clones within the 15 selected

sweetpotato clones have higher dry matter and lower sugars than the check variety. These varieties can

potentially be released in future after further multi-locational trial.

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5.1.3. Gelling Potential of Cassava Starch in Culture Medium

Research Team: Samuel Amiteye, Abigail Tweneboah Asare, Rosemary Kusi-Adjei, Elaine Azu, Clement

Annor and Solomon Otu

ABSTRACT

Media for in vitro cultures are either solid or liquid. Gelling agents are added to culture medium to

increase viscosity and to prevent explants from submerging in medium. Most culture media uses agar as

gelling agent, however agar is the most expensive media component. Establishment of plant micro

propagation must be cost effective. In this vain, cassava starch which possess the same gelatinous

properties as agar, could be a much cheaper gelling agent. Cassava is the most cultivated crop in Ghana

and contains high amounts of starch. Extraction of starch from cassava is not difficult therefore making it

readily available. Pure cassava starch forms a gelatinous matrix, is odourless, has paste clarity, stickiness

and low levels of impurities like proteins and lipids. Due to gelling ability of cassava starch, its use was

employed in the micro-propagation of four crops: pineapple, sweet potatoes, plantain and cassava.

Phytagel and cassava starch were the two gelling agents that were used. Different amount of starch were

used while, phytagel was maintained at standard concentrations. Inoculation was carried out in sterile

laminar flow hood under aseptic conditions. Data on in vitro plantlet performance was started two weeks

after inoculation and on two weeks intervals for six weeks. Data is yet to be analyzed.

5.1.4. Diversity Studies on Some Seven Selected Sweet Potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) Accessions

Research team: Abigail Tweneboah Asare, Samuel Amiteye, Rosemary Kusi Adjei, Robert Appiah and

Clement Annor

ABSTRACT

Effective protocols have been established for micro-propagation of seven sweet potato accessions for

farmers. However, not much is known about their genetic diversity. Crop improvement however is linked

to knowledge of these genetic characteristics of plants. The aim of this work was to determine and

quantify the diversity among these sweet potatoe accessions using morphological markers. Simple

sequence markers (SSR) were used to assess the diversity. DNA extraction and amplification were done

using CTAB method. DNA samples were then used in Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) amplification

with 20 SSR markers. PCR reactions were performed following an internal protocol of DNA Landmarks

with minor modifications. Detection of PCR products were done using ultra-violet transilluminator.

Bands scored were coded as present (1) or absent (0). Data will be analyze using Genstat software 9th

edition. Polymorphic information content (PIC) which distinguishes between accessions will be

calculated. Binary matrix generated from the raw data will be used to construct a principal coordinate

graph and subsequently a dendogram.

5.1.5. In-Vitro and In Vivo Propagation of Some Ornamental Flowers

Research team: K. E. Danso, Abigail Tweneboah Asare, Elaine Azu, Rosemary Kusi-Adjei, Clement

Annor and Prince Kpentey

ABSTRACT

One of the major applications of plant tissue culture is micro propagation or rapid multiplication.

Compared to conventional propagations, micro propagation has the advantage of allowing rapid

propagation in limited time and space. Good results have been obtained from the micro propagation of

elite plants. Bougainvillea and whistling pine are traditional difficult to propagate because in our climatic

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conditions it does not produce seeds while from cuttings the percentage of success is low. There is

therefore the need to adopt tissue culture technique which is the recent tool for quick and mass

regeneration of plant species. In vitro response of various growth regulators on the regeneration of these

ornamental plants using matured tree-derived explant. However, anther culture another tissue culture

technique in which the immature pollen is grown on either a liquid or solid medium resulting in callus

tissue is being employed in the micro propagation of another two floral plants. These two are yet to be

identified and not much is known about their vitro propagation. In vivo propagation of two varieties of

bougainvillea and whistling pine in pots is also on going. A randomized complete block design was used

with 30 plants planted in 3 rows of 10 plants. Several treatments were used: cuttings treated with rooting

powder and cuttings not treated with rooting powder, cuttings that were dipped in different concentrations

of NAA solutions.

5.1.6. Identification and Molecular Characterisation of Begomoviruses Naturally Occurring in

Some Weed Species in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana

Project team: Rosemary Kusi-Adjei, Andrew Sarkodie Appiah, Abigail Tweneboah Asare, and Robert

Appiah

ABSTRACT:

Weeds are distributed throughout the world and have high environmental adaptability. They are

considered as sources of new viruses and reservoirs of unidentified economically important viruses but

are often neglected during diversity studies. Many scientific reports suggest that weeds are the potential

sources of primary inoculums of begomoviruses and play an important role as reservoir or alternative host

for the virus survival and spread in the absence of the main crop. Thus, there is a pressing need for

additional information on the diversity and distribution of begomovirus associated weeds, which likely

serve as reservoir. In this study, seven farms around the Dome-Kwabenya environs were visited in

September, 2014. Leaf samples from weed species exhibiting typical begomovirus infection such as

golden mosaic symptoms were collected for DNA extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Ten

plants each belonging to different weed species were sampled from each farm. Total genomic DNA was

extracted from the leaves using the CTAB based method of extraction according to Lodhi et al., (1994).

DNA extracted from the weed species were used in PCR using five sets of designed primer pairs which

amplified begomoviral viral DNA. PCR amplifications using three of the primers in all the weed samples

showed that four of the weed species were natural reservoirs of begomoviruses and these could have

major implications in disease spread on most crops of economic importance in Ghana since they are

widespread.

5.1.7. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Detection of ACMV and EACMV in Chemo Mutagenized

Varieties of Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz).

Research team: K. E. Danso, Abigail Tweneboah Asare, Rosemary-Kusi Adjei, Solomon Otu and Robert

Appiah

ABSTRACT

Crop improvement through mutation breeding has led to traits for disease and pest resistance among

others in several crops such as cassava. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) detection of viruses in plants is

a molecular method employed recently due it easy and efficacy. Some cassava varieties infested with

African Cassava Mosaic (ACMV) and East African Mosaic Virus (EAMV) were chemo mutagenized

with the aim of eliminating the virus. These cassava varieties were treated with different concentrations of

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Ethyl Methyl Sulphonate (EMS) at different times. DNA was extracted from young leaf samples of the

cassava varieties above using the CTAB method. Good quality DNAs were obtained, which were used for

PCR detection of ACMV and EACMV with the use of JSP001/JSP002 and EAB555F and EAB555R

specific primers respectively. PCR products obtained were amplified on 1.8% agarose gel. Bands were

scored as present or absent indicating presence or absence of viruses.

5.1.8. Evaluation of Sweet Potato Leaf Curl Virus on Yield of Five Elite Sweet Potato Varieties

Research Team: Jonathan Amponsah, Nusrat Afful, Rosemary Kusi-Adjei, Christian Ankamah and

Clement Annor

ABSTRACT

Sweet potato (Ipomea batatas) is the world’s fifth most important food crop after rice, wheat, maize and

cassava. It is cultivated mainly for its tuberous roots, although the leaves and vines are culinary delight in

some cultures providing essential nutrients. Consequently, in the face of climate change, sweet potato is

gaining prominence as a food security crop. But this role is being threatened by virus infestation. Notable

among them is the sweet potato leaf curl virus (SPLCV) which has been reported to reduce yield

considerably. However, the extent of yield reduction in the local cultivars has not been ascertained.

Therefore, this work was aimed at evaluating the effect of SPLCV on yield of two elite local cultivars and

three elite exotic ones. Field grown plants were tested in the laboratory for the virus by Polymerase Chain

Reaction (PCR) using two sets of primers SPG1/SPG2 and SPG3/SPG4. Ten plants of each cultivar were

tested, out of which more than 80% of the plants sampled tested positive for the virus. Mersitems of the

infected plants were isolated and used to initiate callogenesis, the calli were then used to generate somatic

embryos, from which plantlets were developed. Less than 40% of all plantlets tested after meristem

culture were found to be virus free. This confirmed that meristem culture is able to eliminate SPLCV

from infected plants. The non-infected plantlets were rooted on a rooting medium and weaned in an insect

proof cage to prevent reinfection. The plants were watered with about 10mls of water every other day till

plants reached a height of about 600cm. Currently, vines of disease free plants are under multiplication in

insect proof cage, by cutting them into three nodes each for all the cultivars, and then replanted in pots.

5.1.9. Intra-specific Carbon Partitioning: A Case Study of Five Elite Varieties of Sweet Potatoes.

Research Team: Jonathan Amponsah, Nusrat Tsemah Afful, Clement Annor, Alex Asumeng, Clement

Annor, and Kwame Asare

ABSTRACT Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) is a dicotyledonous perennial herb cultivated mainly for its large, starchy

and sweet-tasting tuberous roots. The young vegetative parts also serve as vegetables in some cultures and

are eaten as greens. Described as the potato of the tropics, sweet potato is the world’s seventh most

important crop. Globally, 130 million tonnes are produced annually. Of this, Africa produces a paltry 7

million tonnes, despite the fact that consumption has been rising steadily. Nutritionally, sweet potato is

high in carbohydrate and vitamin A, and it is much efficient at conversion of solar energy per hector per

day into edible energy than cassava, rice or wheat. However, little has been done to determine the

underlying causes of variations in the conversion of solar energy into edible yield between different

accessions of this crop of growing importance. This study therefore sought to evaluate the partitioning of

photosynthetically fixed carbon in three foreign cultivars against two elite native cultivars of sweet potato

in a field grown experiment. The experiment was a laid in a 3 × 6 randomized complete block design,

constituted by 3 blocks each made up of 6 beds. On each of the beds (plots) within a block, six sweet

potato accessions were each randomly assigned to a bed. Four vines per accession per plot were planted

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with a planting distance of 1m and monitored weekly for growth parameters. Gas exchange measurements

on three leaves per age class of three plants per plot were also taken, using a portable photosynthetic

system (CI - 340). These measurements will be used to calculate the Carbon Use Efficiency (CUE), Daily

Carbon Gained (DCG) and Total Carbon Gained (TCG). Preliminary results have shown the two local

accessions to have lower leaf numbers compared to the exotic ones. The development of leaves in all the

accessions followed a sigmoid trajectory, which appeared to be an adaptation to allow leaf initiation and

maturation. Also, they were found to have significantly smaller leaf area ratios compared to the exotic

accessions. The leaf architecture and density were found to be sparse, and this might facilitate soil water

evaporation. These variations may lead to much lower photosynthesis and TCG in the local accessions,

but full determination of the dry biomass and computation of TCG of each of the accessions will

determine the carbon partition is all the accessions.

5.1.10. In-vitro Propagation of Oxytheranthra abyssinica (Bamboo) Using Seed Explant

Research Team: Nusrat Afful, Jonathan Amponsah, Alex Asumeng, Doris Dzimega and Clement Annor

ABSTRACT The scarcity of hardwood has led to the discovery of bamboo, Oxytheranthra abyssinica as a suitable

replacement in the wood industry. Consequently, the annual harvest in Ghana continues to rise sharply,

with devastating consequences on wild bamboo cover. In spite of this, minimal efforts have been made to

replant the declining stock, due to the lack of propagules. Hence, a micropropagation protocol was

developed for multiplication of Oxytheranthra abyssinica using seed explants. First, the seeds were

sterilized with 0.2% HgCL2 for durations of 3, 5 and 7 minutes to determine optimum time for

sterilization. Sterilized explants were inoculated on MS medium without hormones. The result showed

that contamination free cultures and best seed germination was achieved when explants were sterilized for

7 minutes. Seeds sterilized and cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium supplemented with

different concentrations of TDZ or BAP (0- 5.5 mg/L) germinated within a week after culture. Radicle

emergence was recorded by the third day whilst the plumule emergence was observed by the seventh day

in all treatments. Seed germination was significantly (P≤ 0.05) improved by the addition of plant growth

regulators compared to the controls. Highest germination percentage was observed on MS medium

supplemented with 3.5 mg/L TDZ (100%) whilst the lowest was on MS medium supplemented with 5.5

mg/L BAP (67%). The cultured seeds also produced multiple shoots (2 -7±1.045) within 4 weeks on this

medium. Shoot proliferation was influenced by the concentration of cytokinins (TDZ or BAP) in the

culture medium. The multiplication of shoots on TDZ supplemented medium increased significantly

(P≤0.05) with the high levels of TDZ. The highest mean number of shoots produced was 7 shoots/seed at

4.5 mg /L after which shoot number decreased to 2 shoots/seed (5.5 mg/L). However, on BAP

supplemented medium, highest number of shoots (3 shoots/seed) was recorded at a concentration of

3.5mg/L with the lowest (1 shoots/seed) at 5.5mg/L BAP. Subsequent subculture for further in-vitro shoot

multiplication and development was not possible due to phenolic exudation.

5.1.11. Zygotic Embryogenesis of Oil Palm

Research Team: K.E. Danso, Rhoda Gyinae Diawuoh, Kwasi Adusei-Fosu, Wilfred Elegba, Christian

Akama and Wonder Nunepeku

ABSTRACT

Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) is the source of the most sought-after edible oil in the world market.

Currently, all major commercial oil palms are F1 hybrids between pisifera and dura. The hybrids (tenera)

show high variations in oil yield with the best plants yielding 40% more than average. Since oil palm is a

monocotyledonous perennial crop species that cannot be multiplied vegetatively, tissue culture has

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become the key method for multiplication of oil palm elite genotypes. Zygotic embryos are the most

desirable source of explants, because they are characterized by abundant availability and are notably

faster and more responsive to in vitro culture than other types of explant. A reliable and efficient

procedure for propagation of elite in vitro clones has therefore become necessary for commercial planting

of oil palm elite genotypes as well as genetic transformation studies. Nutritional requirements and

conditions necessary for callus induction and plant regeneration of mature zygotic embryos of the tenera

species of oil palm were assessed. A factorial experiment was conducted with different hormones

(Picloram, Dicamba and 2,4-D) and different hormonal levels (0-5)mg/l Picloram, (0-5)mg/l Dicamba, )

intended to show the interactions between these factors and callus formation and subsequent plant

regeneration. Even though, callus formation was not encouraging, the embryos germinated in single

plants. The protocol is still under perfection.

5.1.12. Virus Elimination in Sweet Potato via Somatic Embryogenesis

Research Team: Rhoda Gyinae Diawuoh, Rosemary Kusi-Adjei, Wilfred Elegba and

Clement Annor

ABSTRACT

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) is a major staple food and source of income in several regions of

Africa. The crop is becoming an important part of the diet of many households in Africa as it constitutes a

substantial source of carbohydrate and carotene. The crop however, is plagued with numerous viral

diseases including Sweet potato feathery mottle virus (SPFMV) disease, Sweet potato latent virus (SPLV)

disease, Sweet potato mild mottle virus (SPMMV) disease, Sweet potato yellow dwarf virus (SPYDV)

disease, Sweet potato leaf curl virus (SPLCV) disease and a host of others causing significant yield

losses. Meristem culture has been the method of choice to eliminate viruses from sweet potato and many

other plant species. This method of virus elimination is tedious, time consuming and requires complex

instrumentation and expertise. To help overcome this problem, this work sought to explore the efficiency

of somatic embryogenesis to clean virus infected planting materials by inducing callus from leaf lobes of

infected meristem cultured derived plants on CLC ipomoea medium supplemented with 0-5mg/l

picloram.

5.2. NUCLEAR AGRICULTURE CENTRE

5.2.1. Multi-locational evaluation of yellow flesh cassava cultivars

Research team: 1Amenorpe G, 2Diana Akumanue and 2Elvis Asare-Bediako

1Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Institute, Kwabenya; 2Cape Coast University, Cape Coast

Abstract

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is an important food security crop because it is resilient to adverse

dry weather conditions and thrives well on marginal lands with very low soil nutrients. Yellow flesh

cassava landraces, which contain β-carotene micronutrient suitable for correcting Vitamin A deficiencies

are few and even getting extinct in Ghana. The objective of the study was to assess the performance,

culinary properties and β-carotene content of yellow flesh cassava genotypes generated from previous

hybridization studies grown under different agroecological zones. Yellow flesh cassava genotypes were

established at 1m x 1m planting distance in a randomized complete block design using three replications

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and three locations. One milky white root-flesh landrace (HO 001) was used as a check. The experiment

is in progress.

5.2.2. Breeding of Yellow Flesh Cassava for Higher Beta-Carotene Levels

Research team: Godwin Amenorpe, IITA, All Staff of NARC and GIF

Abstract

Yellow flesh cassava is an important source of pro-vitamin A or beta carotene needed to prevent

blindness and abortion in pregnant women. The objective of the study was to breed yellow flesh cassava

with high beta-carotene and dry matter contents. A regional field trial of yellow flesh cassava was

established involving 14 elite lines in June, 2014. Mutagenesis studies were also done on yellow flesh

cassava and five thousand gamma irradiated cassava seeds were planted on the field in June, 2014.

Additionally, one thousand yellow flesh cassava with half sibs from ten families were established on the

field in May 2014. The incidence and severity of pest and diseases are ongoing and the cassava genotypes

would be screened for culinary properties, total carotene, total carotenoids and total beta-carotene

contents next year.

5.2.3. Postharvest Physiological Deterioration study of roots from whole irradiated cassava plants

and detached roots

Research team: 1Ceballos, 2Godwin Amenorpe, 3Ruth, 2All Staff of NARC and 4GIF

1. CIAT, Columbia; 2 NARC/BNARI, 3 CRI, Fumesua; 4 GIF/BNARI

Abstract

Postharvest physiological deterioration (PPD) is a major problem of cassava during storage. It is believed

that enzyme triggers PPD in cassava. However, the time after harvest during which the enzyme triggers

the cassava root to destroy itself is not clearly understood. Cassava roots were subjected to the following

treatments: no irradiation plus no waxing, no irradiation plus waxing, irradiation plus waxing, irradiation

plus no waxing. Also, irradiated whole plant and zero radiation of whole plant were additional treatments.

The irradiation was done at 1300 gray. In the case of waxing, wax was applied to the neck where the

cassava root was detached from the plant. The objective of the study was to determine when PPD starts in

cassava roots and to ascertain whether PPD is caused by enzyme or not. Results showed that PPD was

higher in irradiated treatments than their corresponding non-irradiated treatments, suggesting that the

irradiation dose of 1300 gray was too high. The recommendation is that the experiment be repeated using

irradiation doses less than 1300 gray.

5.2.4. Agronomic evaluation of four genotypes of sorrel (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.)

Research Team: E.K. Quartey, H. M. Amoatey, W. Nunekpeku, J. Nunoo, R. Kusi-Adjei, M. Owereku-

Asare

Abstract Sorrel (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) is increasingly gaining prominence because of its use in making Sobolo, a

locally brewed non-alcoholic drink, which has been hailed for its high antioxidant and phenolic contents.

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There are over 40 accessions of this plant currently being cultivated in Ghana. Characterization of this

important plant is underway. However some seed companies have started importing seeds for sale. It is

therefore important to assess the agronomic characteristics of the imported genotypes to the local

landraces of sorrel to determine the most suitable genotype for cultivation. Two exotic breeds, Bissap

Vert and Bissap Koop Rouge, and two local landraces (G-2/20 and G-2/40) were nursed and transplanted

to the field after 2 weeks. Agronomic assessment will include days to 50% flowering, number of

branches, height at maturity, etc.

5.2.5. Multi-locational trial of cassava hybrids under different ecological zones

Research Team: E.K. Quartey, H.M. Amoatey, W. Nunekpeku, A.S. Appiah, S. Ofori, M. Owusu-Ansah

and S. Agbemavor

Abstract

In 2001 ‘Afisiafi’ cassava variety was selected by the PSI (President’s Special Initiative) for large-scale

cultivation to supply raw materials to Ayensu Starch Factory for starch production. Following the

breakdown of African Cassava Mosaic Viral Disease (ACMVD) resistance in Afisiafi, there have been

several attempts to find a suitable substitute which has high root yield and high starch content and has the

ability to perform adequately in many locations. Sexual hybridization is known to be one of the surest

ways of introgression of CMD resistance in cassava. Based on a preliminary field evaluation of several

cassava accessions in the BNARI Field Gene Bank, accessions which showed signs of tolerance to the

ACMVD were selected and crossed with ‘Afisiafi’. Among the crosses made, ‘Afisiafi x ‘Security’

crosses were the most successful. Preliminary agronomic evaluation of six ACMVD tolerant ‘Afisiafi’ x

‘Security’ hybrids and three other hybrids developed from crosses among promising accessions resulted

in the identification of four superior hybrids which are being multiplied for multi-locational trial in three

agro-ecological zones in Ghana.

5.2.6. Effect of defoliation on agronomic performance of cassava

Research Team: E.K. Quartey, W. Nunekpeku, G. Amenorpe, H.M. Amoatey, A.S. Appiah and M.

Owusu-Ansah

Abstract The primary economic part of cassava is the starchy tuberous roots. These are obtained at harvest

maturity, mostly between 10 – 12 months after planting depending on the variety. The foliage which

serves as a secondary economic part is often used to feed livestock in the form of hay or silage. Aside

being used as animal feed, most people utilize cassava leaves as a vegetable dietary component due to its

high protein content. Cassava is a perennial woody shrub which is drought tolerant and therefore, retains a

significant proportion of its foliage even at periods when most crops would entirely lose their vegetation.

It, therefore, serves as a key food security crop in times of adverse situations, especially, drought

conditions and replaces major vegetables such as kontomere, gboma, ayoyo, and alefu. Recently, due to

commercial production of medicinal herbal products from cassava leaves its demand has heightened so

much that farmers no more wait till harvest before obtaining the leaves. While growing on the field, the

leaves are harvested at all stages of growth until harvest maturity. The aim of this study was, therefore, to

determine the optimal level of defoliation in cassava without compromising on root yield and quality.

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5.2.7. The effect of different regimes of compost on the yield and other components of cabbage

Research Team: J. Nunoo, E.K. Quartey, S. Nartey, M. Dodobi and B. Offei

Abstract Field trials were conducted during the dry season (2014) at the Research farm of Nuclear

Agriculture Research Centre (NARC) to study the effect of different levels of organic and inorganic

fertilizer on the growth and physiochemical and antioxidant properties of two varieties of cabbage

(Brassica oleracea) (K.K cross and Oxylus). The treatments consisted of three levels of organic fertilizer

(dewatered faecal sludge (DFS), DFS plus saw dust (SD), municipal market waste compost, (MSW) and

one level of inorganic fertilizer (Compound NPK-3.85g and SA-4.2g per plant). Work is in progress.

5.2.8. Molecular characterization of different accessions of tomato breeding lines

Research team: S. Amiteye, R. Kusi-Adjei, E.K. Quartey and J. Nunoo

Abstract

Tomato is a fruit of great importance as it is rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant reported to decrease

cancer risk. Crossing of cultivated varieties of tomatoes with wild tomato, S. pimpinellifolium L. has been

done and the offspring’s grown for five generations to transfer desirable traits such as lycopene and

disease resistance to the cultivated varieties to improve its market value. The agronomic characterisation

has been done for the F5 offspring’s and thus the molecular characterisation is to be done to determine the

true to-type of the various lines. Characterization of the tomato accessions using molecular markers

would be done for the purpose of selecting new tomato varieties for direct production or for use

in hybridization programmes. Work is in progress.

5.3. RADIATION ENTOMOLOGY AND PEST MANAGEMENT CENTRE

5.3.1. Indoor resting behaviour of anopheline vectors and its implications for targeted application of

entomopathogenic fungi in southern Ghana.

Research Team: Michael Osae, Michael Wilson, David Wilson, Bart Knols and Lizette Koekemoer

Abstract

One promising novel vector control strategy is the use of entomopathogenic for adult control. To

effectively implement this novel strategy, it is important to understand the ecology and behaviour of

vector species in the target areas, which appears to vary with species and location. This study focused on

understanding the indoor resting behaviour of anopheline vectors and factors that influence choice of

resting site in southern Ghana. Indoor resting anophelines were collected from six villages in southern

Ghana. For each mosquito collected, the resting site, material, three dimensional location and

microclimatic conditions at the point of collection were recorded. Samples collected were identified

morphologically to species groups and to species level by PCR. The distribution of the different

anophelines and how these relate to resting sites parameters and microclimatic conditions were analysed.

The resting site parameters of 431 female anophelines (132 An. gambiae, 176 An. coluzzii and 123 An.

funestus) were analysed. Of these, high proportions of An. gambiae s.s. (75.94%), An. funestus (73.60%)

and An. coluzzii (58.19%) were found resting at heights from 200 cm upwards on the roofs ceilings and

upper walls. The preferred resting materials included woody roofing (timber, bamboo, palm and coconut

fronds), wall (clay and cement) and clothing (mainly cotton) materials. Light intensity and wind speed

appeared to be the major microclimatic factors influencing choice of resting site with over 90% and 95%

of all species resting at locations with less than 20 Lux light and 0 ms-1 wind, respectively. Temperature

and relative humidity did not significantly affect choice of resting site. All the anopheles species prefer to

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rest on darker coloured wooden and wall materials higher up in village rooms. Based on these data, it

should be possible to use darker wooden or cloth materials to construct point source dissemination

devices for entomopathogenic fungi or even other synthetic insecticides. These devices can be placed

higher up and closer to walls in village rooms to target anopheline vectors of disease in Africa.

5.3.2. Effect of ultraviolet radiation on the development and reproduction of Anopheles gambiae

Research Team: Michael Osae and Stephen Boadi

Abstract

The current vector control strategies involving indoor residual spraying and insecticide treated nets have

tremendously contributed to decreasing the burden of malaria in most parts of the world. However, in the

hardest hit areas of sub-Saharan Africa, malaria still poses major burden on populations and the economy

due mainly to the development of resistance by the vector to the major insecticides used in IRS and on

ITNs. To sustain the gains and win the war against the disease, there is the need to develop novel

strategies that can overcome the insecticide resistance problem. The work done looked into the effect of

ultraviolet radiation on the development and reproduction of Anopheles gambiae to determine if there are

any deleterious effects to take advantage of for their control. The data collected show that ultraviolet

radiation affects aspects of the development and reproduction of exposed flies and show some exposure

time effect. However, the effect does not appear to be carried beyond the stage that is exposed to UV. The

data is still being processed for final conclusions.

5.3.3. Extraction of the proteolytic enzyme, papain from local sources for the production of protein

baits for fruit fly control

Research Team: Michael Osae, Rosemary Aggrey-Korsah, Simon Yeboah, Ebenezer Ewusie and

Alexander Egyir-Yawson

Abstract

Previous research work has resulted in the development of a protein bait from local brewery yeast waste

for fruit fly control. One of the major factors that will still affect the cost of production of protein bait is

the high cost of the proteolytic enzyme, papain, needed for digesting the proteins in the yeast cells.

Preliminary studies has shown that papain can be extracted from the pawpaw plant. This project focuses

on the extraction and purification of papain from the fruit of pawpaw using different methods and

evaluating the extracts for production of protein bait from brewery yeast waste. So far, papain has been

extracted from pawpaw fruit latex and from skin peel and used to produce protein bait. The quality of the

papain and the prepared baits have been evaluated using biochemical methods and bioassays with adult

fruit flies in the laboratory. Data collected are still being analyzed before any conclusion can be drawn.

5.3.4. Development of larval diet for mass rearing of African invader fruit fly, Bactrocera invadens

Drew, Tsura & White (Diptera: Tephritidae)

Research Team: Yeboah, S., Ofori, E. S. K., Osae, M. Y

Abstract

The production of low cost high quality sterile insects is a major factor for successful sterile insect

technique programmes. Yeast products are the main nutritional component in the diet used to mass-rear

adults and larvae of fruit flies. The high cost of using imported brewer’s yeast for larval mass rearing has

20

made it important to consider other affordable and readily available sources of larval diet. A low cost

local soybean based diet is being tested against the Standard Seibersdorf diet and natural fruits including:

matured mango, banana and orange fruits for the rearing of the invader fly Bactrocera invadens (Drew,

Tsura & White). Preliminary results showed that the soybean diet produced the highest fruit fly pupae of

60, followed by mango fruit with 23 pupae. The standard Seibersdorf diet, which was originally

developed for rearing Mediterranean fruit flies produced the least pupae of 5. The project is still on-going.

5.3.5. Evaluating the Impact of Synthetic Herbicides on Soil Dwelling Organisms in Agro-

Ecosystems

Research Team: Osae, M, Ofori-Ayeh, E, Ofori, E. S. K, Okona-Frempong, J

Abstract

The study was carried out at the BNARI research farm. An area that has not been under cultivation for at

least three years was identified and used for the study. It is assumed that three years is long enough time

for the soil ecosystem to regenerate and maintain some level of equilibrium. The identified area was

ploughed, harrowed and stumps removed. The objective was to evaluate the effect of three different

herbicide active ingredients in commercial formulations on soil dwelling organisms. Three different types

of herbicides namely Glyphosate, Paraquat Dichloride and Dimethyl ammonium containing at least one of

each of the common active ingredients was tested against manual weed control in completely randomised

design with three replications. The field was left to stand for three weeks after ploughing for weeds to

begin to grow and soil macro-organisms allowed to recover from the mechanical stress of ploughing. A

10 cm corer was used to sample soil to the depth of 20 cm. The field was treated for weed control using

the different herbicides and manual weeding. The designated weed control method for each plot was

applied throughout the cropping season anytime weeds come up. Soil samples were taken for assessment

of soil dwelling organisms on weekly basis till the end of the season. The sampled soil was spread on a

clean tray and identification of the different arthropods species in the sample identified. Any unidentified

arthropod/macro-organism found was collected into 70% alcohol in a vial and labelled. The sampled

arthropod/macro-organisms was identified to at least the genus level using identification keys. At the end

of the study, the extent to which the evaluated herbicides affected soil dwelling organisms will be

established. The data will be useful for developing policies on herbicides use and biodiversity

conservation on agro-ecosystems. Data is still being collected for analysis.

5.3.6. Investigating Patterns of Population Genetic Structure and Insecticide Resistance in

Anopheles funestus in West Africa

Research Team: Osae, M., Egyir-Yawson, A., Wondji, C.

Abstract

This study was to provide strong background for better understanding insecticide resistance status, and

gene flow and population structure of populations of An. funestus that will help the implementation and

monitoring of future control of this vector. Sampling of An. funestus was done at Oboasi in the Ashanti

Region and Adawukwa in the Central Region of Ghana since 2011. Until 2014, we have not been able to

rear for the progeny of field collected blood-fed adult due to unexplained reasons. This year however, we

were able to rear a batch of eggs from field collections done in Oboasi in March and have got good

numbers of egg batches from field collections in Adawukwa in November. Data are still being processed

for analysis.

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5.3.7. Reproduction of protein hydrolysate bait using local brewery sources to alleviate fruit

menace for mango farmers

Research Team: Alexander Egyir-Yawson, Ebenezer Ato Ewusie and Michael Osae and Manya Krobo

District Mango Farmers Union

Abstract

This project is being supported by SDF/COTVET (Grantor) for the implementation of the Project entitled

‘’Reproduction of protein hydrolysate bait using local brewery sources to alleviate fruit fly menace for

mango farmers’’. The objectives of the project were to Design, fabricate, set up and produce protein bait

to supply to farmers, set up a laboratory for quality control, train technicians and managers to run the

facility and train farmers in the field application of the bait for effective control of fruit flies in mango

fields. Work done so far included design and fabrication of 30000 lire external surface tank, shells of

2268 litre evaporation tank, shells of 536 litres diester. The training manual for trainer of trainers’

workshop has also been developed. Work is progressing.

5.3.8. Trypanosome prevalence in pigs and tsetse flies from the Jomoro District of the Western

Region of Ghana

Research Team: 1Alexander Egyir-Yawson and 1Francis Apaatah and 2Bimi Langbong 1Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute; 2University of Ghana

Abstract

The study was carried out from October to November 2013 in Jomoro district of the Western Region of

Ghana to assess the prevalence of trypanosomes in pigs and tsetse flies. The work also identified tsetse fly

species and their apparent density in the study area. The methods employed during the study included

molecular and microscopy techniques of stained blood smears for parasitological studies. Entomological

surveys used a total of 16 un-baited bi-conical traps for collection of tsetse flies. A total of 300 pigs were

randomly selected from the study population and examined for the presence of trypanosomes. The packed

cell volume (PCV) value of each animal was also measured using a haematocrit reader. DNA extracted

from 300 flies and genotyped by PCR for trypanosome detection and identification indicated an overall

frequency of trypanosomes in the study area of 4.33% in pigs and 0.77% in tsetse flies. None of the blood

samples scored positive for the presence of trypanosome by microscopy of stained blood smears. There

was a high frequency of mixed infection of Trypanosoma congolense Forest and T. vivax (46.15%), and a

single mixed infection with Trypanosoma congolense Forest, Trypanosoma vivax and Trypanosoma

brucei gambiense. There were also single infections of T. vivax and T. congolense Forest (15.38%) and

(7.70%). The study also demonstrated no variations in prevalence (p > 0.05) among different age groups

and between both sexes. However, the prevalence rate of trypanosomes in good and poor body

conditioned animals was significantly different (1.9% and 20%), respectively. Mean PCV of parasitaemic

pigs (29.33%) was significantly (P<0.05) lower than of aparasitaemic pigs (37.75%), suggesting

physiological stress for infected animals. Entomological survey showed Glossina palpalis palpalis as the

only tsetse species with fly apparent density of eighteen flies/trap/day. Although the present study

revealed low prevalence, implementing the control of trypanosomiasis using an integrated approach is of

paramount importance in the study sites.

5.3.8. Morphometric characterization of three tsetse fly species – Glossina morsitans morsitans, G.

palplis palpalis, and G. tachinoides (Diptera: Glossinidae) from Ghana

Research Team: 1Alexander Egyir-Yawson, 2Edwin Mustapha and 2Maxwell Billah 1Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture research Institute; 2University of Ghana

22

Abstract

The objectives of the research were to: use morphometric techniques to compare size and shape of three

tsetse fly species- Glossinidae. m. morsitans, Glossinidae. p. palpalis and Glossinidae. tachinoides of

Ghana, compare populations of G. p. palpalis collected from three geographical regions (Northern,

Eastern and Western) of Ghana, to determine if any size differences exist between populations of the

same kind (G. p. palpalis) collected from different localities of the same region (Western Region). Flies

were sampled from four sites in the Western, one site in the Eastern and three sites in the Northern Region

using standard un-baited biconical traps. Right wings and right hind legs of selected flies from different

collection sites were removed and mounted on microscope slides using glycerin as the mounting medium.

Images of the prepared slides were captured under a Leica EZ4 D microscope with an inbuilt camera

connected to a laptop. Measurement of captured images was facilitated by Leica Application software

(version 8.0). A total of 1820 tsetse flies were trapped during the survey period, of which 1163 (63.9%)

were females and 657 (36.1%) males. Based on morphological characters, 1776 (97.68%) of the flies

trapped were identified as G. p. palpalis while the remaining 44 (2.43%) were G. tachinoides. A total of

1693 (93.02%) were collected from the Western region, followed by 65 (3.57%) and 62 (3.41%) from the

Eastern and Northern Regions respectively. Results of the GLM analyses of linear and ratio data revealed

that different linear combinations can be used to characterize tsetse species of different populations. The

ratio value hind tibia/wing length (th/at) significantly distinguished fly populations into four groups,

Northern, Eastern, Western and the lab colony; this is an indication that hind tibia/wing length is a good

morphometric feature which can be used to discriminate flies from different regions of Ghana. Much size

and shape differences were not observed in the G. p. palpalis sampled from the Western Region.

However, sexual dimorphism existed within the species across all localities with females being larger

than males.

5.3.9. Preliminary Ecological Studies of insect species associated with different accessions of

Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) in Southern Ghana.

Research Team: Ofori, E. S. K., Afful, N., Quartey, E., Osae, M. and Amoatey, H.M.

Abstract

The relative abundance and diversity of insect species were studied for three months, between the months

of September 2012 and November, 2012 on twenty two different accessions of eggplant (Solanum

melongena L.) at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission’s Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture

Research Institute farm. Field observation was used in the data collection. The two main objectives of the

study were to determine the relative abundance of the insect species on the egg plant accessions and also

to determine the insect diversity on the egg plant accession. The fields were divided into three replicates

each containing twenty two different accessions of egg plant S. macrocarpon, S. gilio GH8769, S.

aethiopicum, S. gilio GH8771, Nroroye F, Ntorewa K, S. gilio GH8770, S. melongena GH 3949, Ntropo

B, Ndroshye E, Ndroshye C, Ndroshye, Nroroye A, Black beauty, Nroroye G, Ntropo K, Ntropo I,

Sammy, Ntropo G, Nroroye D, Ntropo H, Nroroye J. The seeds were sown in a nursery and transplanted

35 days after germination to an experimental plot measuring 40 m x 11.4 m in the centre of one acre area

so that the experimental plot was surrounded by a homogeneously managed terrain. The experimental

treatments were deployed in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), replicated three times. Each

replicate was allotted a plot size of 19.8 m x 8.4 m. Each sub-plot planted to one accession consisting of

22 plants at a spacing of 0.9 m x 0.6 m. Plots were separated by a distance of 2 m. Random sampling

technique was used on weekly basis to study the relative abundance, diversity and behaviour of the insect

species on the accessions. Fifteen different insect species were identified on the twenty two accessions of

eggplant from the vegetative through to the maturity stage. These comprised three beneficial (C. lunata,

Camponotus sp., and M. religiosa) and twelve pests (A. craccivora, B. tabaci, B. invadens, Dysdercus sp.,

G. compestris, L. orbonalis, P. mali, Podagrica sp., O. virudulus, N. viridulus, Phenacoccus sp. and Z.

23

variegatus). Their relative abundance ranged from 0.20– 8.78 % for beneficial insects and 0.03 – 45.63 %

for pests. The highest numbers of insects were found on the accessions Ndroshye (14.09%) and Nroroye

G (9.80 %). Nroroye F registered the highest diversity of insect species, while Ntropo B and Sammy

recorded the least diversity. The high abundance of insect pests in the study area coupled with the pest

status of the majority (65.85 %) necessitates prompt institution of control measures, in the case of

commercial cultivation, to prevent economic loss.

5.4. RADIATION TECHNOLOGY CENTRE

5.4.1. Nutritional and Elemental Analyses of Banana Composite Flour for Infants

Research team: Wellington Torgby-Tetteh, Isaac Kwabena Asare, Leticia Amoakoah Twum, Evelyn

Buckman, Isaac Delali Kottoh, John Apatey, Abraham Adu-Gyamfi

Abstract

The utilisation of locally produced agricultural produce in the formulation of complementary foods

provides a cost effective approach not only for weaning but also for making available rehabilitation diet to

malnourished children. The objective of the study was to develop a nutritious product from banana for

infants and increase banana utilisation to reduce post harvest losses. Banana samples obtained from the

Volta River Estate Limited were solar dried and milled into flour. Soybean and maize obtained from a

local market in Madina, Accra, were mechanically dried and made into flour. Banana, soy bean and maize

flour were mixed into composite flour in seven different percentage ratios. Physicochemical and

elemental analyses were performed on the seven different banana composite flours. Results showed a

significant difference in all parameters analysed for all the seven different banana compositions.

Composite flour made of local crops, banana, soybean and maize, had high levels of potassium and

sodium (19350 mg/kg and 12850 mg/kg, respectively) and appreciable levels of iron, zinc and

manganese. Physicochemical analyses showed total carbohydrate was relatively high in all the composite

flours, with crude protein ranging between 5.46±0.51 and 8.95±0.51%, moisture content ranging between

3.16±0.39 and 8.15±0.96 % and pH values ranging from 6.13±0.04 to 6.23±0.01. The proximate result

and mineral content indicate that the banana composite flour could be an ideal product for weaning babies

and infants. Furthermore, the formulation of the banana composite flour requires minimal infrastructure

and the technology involved is quite simple for the ordinary household.

5.4.2. Effects of stearic acid and gamma irradiation, alone and in combination on formation, yield

and characteristics of amylose-lipid nano-complexes from high amylose maize starch

Research team: F.C.K. Ocloo a, b, A. Minnaarb, S. S. Rayc and M.N. Emmambuxb

a Radiation Technology Centre, Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission,

P.O. Box LG 80, Legon, Ghana b Department of Food Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa

c DST/CSIR Nanotechnology Innovation Centre, National Centre for Nano-structured Materials,

Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of stearic acid and gamma irradiation, alone and in

combination, on the amount of isolated amylose-lipid complexes from high amylose maize starch and

their characteristics. High amylose maize starch was incorporated with stearic acid (0, 1.5 % and 5 %) and

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then irradiated at 0, 30 and 60 kGy. These samples were pasted under pressure in the rheometer. Materials

were isolated using hot distilled water washing and thermostable alpha-amylase hydrolysis. The residues

were freeze-dried and the dried residues characterised. Results showed that stearic acid addition increased

the yield of isolated materials, whereas gamma irradiation decreased the yield of isolated materials. The

isolated materials were found to contain amylose-lipid complexes when characterized using DSC and

WAXS. Pasting of gamma irradiated high amylose maize starch (with and without added stearic acid)

produced type I amylose-lipid complexes, whereas that for un-irradiated high amylose maize starch (with

and without added stearic acid) produced type II amylose-lipid complexes. There were some indications

of formation of resistant starch type III (RS III) as observed with WAXS. The presence of added stearic

acid contributed to the formation of more amylose-lipid complexes. These amylose-lipid complexes were

found to occur at nanoscale with sizes ranging from 10 – 110 nm as observed with AFM and TEM. In

conclusion, taylored-made amylose-lipid complexes can be produced. Type I amylose-lipid complexes

can be produced from gamma irradiated high amylose maize starch (with and without added stearic acid)

and type II from un-irradiated high amylose maize starch (with and without added stearic acid). Gamma

irradiation can be used as alternative method for isolating type I amylose-lipid complexes, without

enzyme hydrolysis.

5.4.3. Effect of Irradiation on Elemental Composition of Digitaria Exilis (Fonio)

Project team: 1Agbemavor W.S.K., 1Agyei-Amponsah J., 1Owureku-Asare M., 2Yayra Afram, 1Apatey J.,

and 1Ayeh E. A., 3Tortoe C.

1. Radiation Technology Centre (RTC), BNARI, GAEC

2. School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences, GAEC

3. Food Research Institute (FRI), CSIR

Abstract

Fonio is a traditional cereal which has received minimal research attention in spite of its better nutritional

qualities compared to other cereals. Despite the fact that the crop does not suffer from any pest on the

field, some few insects feed on it and thereby reduce its nutritional and market values during storage. The

overall objective of the research was to characterise two varieties of fonio grown Ghana and to develop

some fonio-based food products to take advantage of the numerous nutritional benefits the crop offers.

Fonio grains were irradiated at 0, 0.75, 1.00, 1.25 and 1.50 kGy at a dose rate of 566Gy per hour and then

analysed for elemental composition using the Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Significant

differences (p<0.05) were detected in the mineral composition of the samples due to the effect irradiation.

In general, no irradiation dose dependent effect was detected on any of the eight elements analysed.

Magnesium, manganese, calcium, iron and zinc contents ranged from 80.0 – 145.0, 2.1 – 9.0, 104.0 –

159.0, 93.0 – 191 and 7.7 – 8.9 mg/100 g, respectively. Nitrogen and potassium also ranged from 0.84 –

1.08 and 1.33 to 1.43 g/100 g, respectively. Copper was not detected in all the samples.

5.4.4. Mutation Induction, Utilization and Conservation of Dioscorea Esculenta (Lour) Burk: A

Threatened Yam Species: Sensory Evaluation

Project Team: 1Agyei-Amponsah J., 1Agbemavor W.S.K., 1Owureku-Asare M., 1Ayeh E., 2Tortoe C., 3Danso K.

1. Radiation Technology Centre (RTC), BNARI, GAEC;

2. Food Research Institute, CSIR

25

3. Biotechnology Centre, BNARI, GAEC

Abstract

Chinese yams were irradiated at 0, 60, 80 and 100 Gys for the purpose of mutation breeding aimed at

improving the tuber size and reducing the number of tubers produced per vine. Harvested tubers were

washed, cut into small chips and dried at 60ºC for 11hours to constant moisture content using an Apex

dryer (Royce, UK). The dried samples were then milled into flour using a hammer mill (Brook Crompton,

2000 Series) and sieved with 250µm size sieve. Chips were prepared from composites of Chinese yam

flour: wheat flour in 10:90; 20:80 and 30:70 proportions respectively. Sensory evaluation was conducted

to determine the effect of the various compositions on colour, taste, texture and overall acceptability. A 9-

point Hedonic scale (with 1 representing dislike extremely and 9 representing like extremely) was used by

an in-house trained panel the evaluation. In all, sample irradiated at 80Gy with a 10:90 composition of

Chinese yam: wheat flour was the most liked in terms of taste, scoring 8.06 while the highest mean score

of 7.93 was for colour. Crispiness of all the samples had a mean score that ranged between 7.20 and 7.93.

In terms of overall acceptability, all the samples were liked moderately with the exception of the non-

irradiated sample with a 30:70 composition of Chinese yam: wheat flour, which had the least acceptance

or likeness in most of the attributes assessed.

5.4.5. Physicochemical and Quality Evaluation of Solar Dried Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum)

Project team: 1Owureku-Asare M., 1Agyei-Amponsah J., 1Agbemavor W.S.K., 2Nyarko A., 2Dowuona S. 2Tortoe C., 3Salia F.

1. Radiation Technology Centre (RTC), BNARI, GAEC;

2. Food Research Institute, CSIR

3. Nutrition and Food Science Department, University of Ghana

Abstract

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) is one of the most consumed vegetables and used in most local dishes

in Ghana. During the peak of harvests, farmers lose 20-50% of their produce due to lack of processing

facilities which results in severe price fluctuations of this commodity. Drying is an effective method of

preservation for many food products. By reducing moisture content and water activity, many microbial,

enzymatic and chemical degradation mechanisms are inhibited and, in the process, unique products are

created. However, the sun-drying industry currently faces difficulties of producing good quality dried

tomatoes. Changes in colour, chemical and textural attributes of vegetables occur during thermal

treatments such as canning, pasteurization and drying. Though the potential for the production and

patronage of dried tomato exist, there is the need to investigate the drying characteristics, sensory,

nutritional and microbial and shelf life of dried tomato. This project investigated the physicochemical

quality and storage stability of solar dried tomato. About 5Kg of Roma tomatoes were washed in brine

and rinsed with clean water. Each tomato was cut into two, seeds removed and each half further chopped

into four parts. The chopped tomatoes were placed in aluminium trays and placed in a concrete block

solar dryer having dimensions of 2.78 m x 5.45 m x 16.46 m. The samples were dried for 5 days, packed

and sealed in high density polyethylene bags. Preliminary results show that there was a decrease in

moisture content from 12.70 ± 0.13- 12.62 ± 0.14 % over the 6 weeks storage period .Water activity

decreased from 0.588 ± 0.005 to 0.559 ± 0.002 and pH decreased from 5.857 ± 0.023 to 5.37 ± 0.045.

Tristimulus colour slightly increased from L* 47.55±0.39 to 47.76±0.33, a decrease in a* from 10.03±

0.40 to 8.162±0.45 and a decrease in b* from 9.71 ±0.85 to 9.372± 0.54.

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5.4.6. Solar Drying and Quality Assessment of Four Accessions of Hibiscus sabdariffa

Project Team: 1Owureku-Asare M., 1Agyei-Amponsah J., 1Agbemavor W. S. K., 1Sarfo A., 1Aryeh E., 1Apatey J., 1Adom J. B., 1Larbi D., 2Quartey E. K., 2Nunoo J., 2Nunekpeku W.

1. Radiation Technology Centre (RTC), BNARI, GAEC

2. Nuclear Agriculture Centre (NAC), BNARI, GAEC

Abstract

The economic interest of hibiscus resides in their dried calyces that are utilized worldwide in the

production of drinks, jellies, sauces, chutneys, wines, preserves, and are a source of natural food colorants

due to the presence of anthocyanin. The objective of this study was to assess the physicochemical quality

of four accessions of bissap and to assess the effect of different drying methods on bissap. The calyx of

freshly harvested bissap accessions F1, F2, FR and FG were de-cored from the stalk and sent to the

laboratory. Samples were divided into three batches one batch was dried in a solar drier with dimensions

3m x3m at temperatures ranging from 26.54 to 41.09°C and relative humidity 27.08 to 76.95% for two

days. The second batch was dried in the open for 12 hours and a third batch dried in a convection

dehydrator set at 55°C for 8hours. Samples were packaged in zip lock bags after drying. The samples

both fresh and dried were analysed for moisture, ash, vitamin C, pH, total soluble solids. Total plate

count, coliform, yeast and mould and ecoli were also evaluated. Preliminary results on the fresh bissaps

indicate moisture content ranged from 85.223 to 88.278 % for F1 and FG respectively. Ash content

ranged between 1.93-2.23% for FR and FG respectively. pH ranged from 2.53-2.9 for FR and F1

respectively. The highest vitamin C content (5.768g/100ml) was recorded for FR whiles FI, F2 and FG all

contained 1.442g/100ml. Titratable acidity ranged between 0.29-0.4% for F1 and FG respectively. F2

recorded the lowest brix of 0.8.Total plate count, coliform, yeast and mould and ecoli were also

evaluated.

5.4.7. Post-Harvest Management and Utilization of Frafa-Potato (Solenostemum rotundifolius Poir):

Baseline Studies

Project Team: 1Agyei-Amponsah J., 1Agbemavor W. S. K., 1Owureku-Asare M., 1Ofori-Appiah D., 1Sarfo

A., 2Akonor P., 2Dowunar S. and 2Tortoe C.

1. Radiation Technology Centre (RTC), BNARI, GAEC

2. Food Research Institute, CSIR

Abstract

Frafra potato (Solenostemon rotundifolius) is an underutilized herbaceous tuber traditionally grown in the

Northern regions of Ghana. It is known to be highly nutritious and have a nutritional composition of 75.6

g of water, 394 kJ (94 kcal) energy, 1.3 g protein, 0.2 g fat, 21.9g carbohydrate, 1.1g fibre, 17mg Ca,

6.0mg Fe, 0.05 mg thiamin, 0.02 mg riboflavin, 1.0 mg niacin and ascorbic acid content of 1 mg.

Unfortunately the tubers have a natural short dormancy which poses a major challenge in terms of

preserving the fresh produce. The tubers become fibrous by 3 months after harvest and begin to sprout.

This study aims to establish a baseline on the nutritional & elemental composition, functional and pasting

properties of frafra potato. With regard to the functional properties, swelling power was found to be 18.28

± 0.90% and a swelling volume of 5.00 ± 0.00 cm3. The flour sample had a solubility of 17.75 ± 0.25%,

and a water and oil absorption capacity of 2.07 ± 0.11 and 0.80 ± 0.02%, respectively. In the case of

pasting properties, a gelatinization temperature of 75.00 ± 0.31, maximum viscosity of 211.00 ±

13.00BU, breakdown viscosity of 13.00 ± 2.65BU, and a setback viscosity of 33.00 ± 1.00BU were

determined. Elemental analysis showed that the Frafra potato had high levels of iron (1.21g/100g) and

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magnesium (1.54 g/100mg), with zinc and manganese levels being 0.038 and 0.0885, respectively.

However, only small traces (<0.001) of copper and nickel were detected.

5.4.8. Comparative Study on the Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Proximate and Functional

Properties of Local Rice (Oryza sp) Varieties.

Project Team: 1Owureku-Asare M., 1Agyei-Amponsah J., 1Ocloo F. C. K., 1Agbemavor W. S. K., 1Sarfo

A., 1Apatey J., 1Ofori-Appiah D., 1Ayeh E. A., 1Adom-Mensah J. B., 1Acquah S., 2Doku H., 2Akonor P., 3Ahene R.

1. Radiation Technology Centre (RTC), BNARI, GAEC

2. Crop Research Institute (CRI), CSIR

3. Ghana Standards Authority (GSA)

Abstract

Rice (Oryza sp.) has become a staple in Ghana and much of West Africa where it serves as an important

convenience food for urban consumers. Although it forms a major part of the Ghanaian diet, locally

grown rice is not patronized due to its variable quality. One main problem with local rice is also with

insect disinfestation which reduces the economic value of local varieties of rice. There is little information

on the effects of gamma irradiation (for insect control) on the qualities of the resultant flours obtained

from local rice varieties. This study therefore seeks to determine the effect of low doses of gamma-

irradiation for insect disinfestation on proximate and functional properties of milled rice from local

varieties. Four local rice varieties Viwotor (VWR), Viwonor short (VNS), Viwonor tall (VNT), Balemi

(BAL) and one exotic variety, Jasmine (JAS) were purchased from rice farmers in Kpong. The paddy rice

was dehulled and irradiated at 0.0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.0 and 1.5kGy at a dose rate of 0.62547kGy/hr.

Samples were milled into flour and packed into high density polyethylene bags prior to analysis. Moisture

and ash were determined in triplicates by standard procedures. Functional properties including bulk

density water and oil absorption capacities were assessed. The samples were also evaluated for protein

and starch contents. Protein ranged from 8.43 to 11.93% for non–irradiated VWR and VNS samples

respectively. Amylose ranged from 40.04 to 44.27 and starch ranged from 56.734 to 77.696. Fe, Zn, Mg

and Mn ranged from 0.148-1.952, 0.088-0.16, 3.071-2.382 and 192.0-432.0mg/100g respectively.

Copper, cobalt and nickel were not detected in any of the rice samples.

5.4.9. Potential Carcinogens in Some Food and Herbal Products in Accra: Biotechnology as a Tool

for Evaluation

Project team: S.T. Odonkor1 and T. Mahami 1Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute (RAMSRI)

Abstract:

The aim of this paper was to determine cancer knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among residents

of Accra. An extensive questionnaire of cancer KAP profiles designed and used previously by the author

was employed in the study.The self-administered and self-coding questionnaire was distributed after

explaining the aims of the study and obtaining respondent consent. The findings of the study revealed that

all respondents admitted they have heard of cancer before and most (91%) of them agreed they heard of

cancer from health workers and medical/nursing staff. The study showed that the most common type of

cancer known to all respondents was breast cancer although other types were known by some of them.

The findings also revealed that among all the cancer treatments, surgery was the most (90%) common

treatments known to all although few of them knew about chemotherapy. Although all respondents were

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of the view that smoking can post a risk to cancer, not all respondents agree that some cancer can be

prevented. Majority of the respondents were uncertain as to whether overweight put a person at the risk of

getting cancer or not. Majority (94.2%) of the respondents agreed that cancer cannot be transmitted

through contact from one person to the other. However, an insignificant number of them thought

otherwise and others had no idea. Majority of the respondents believed that some artificial food additives

can cause cancer whereas a significant number of them said it cannot. Some of them also had no idea.

Also, most of them believed poor quality diet can cause cancer and a significant number of them said it

cannot and some of them had no idea. Again, majority (83.3%) of the respondents agreed that processed

meat/hotdogs is likely linked to colon cancer although others believed that vegetables is likely linked to

colon cancer whiles others believed peanut is likely linked to colon cancer. Generally, the findings show

that not all respondents are well informed on the causes of cancer. Undoubtedly, there is the need for

further education to get all people educated and those who are already educated well informed.

5.4.10. An Evaluation of the Microbiological Quality of Dressed Raw Broiler Chicken from the

BNARI Poultry Farm.

Research Team: T. Mahami, Wellington Togby-Tetteh, L. Amoakoah Twum, Gabriel Frimpong, and A.

Adu-Gyamfi

Abstract

Poultry and poultry products have been incriminated in the majority of traceable food-borne illnesses

caused by zoonotic bacteria. Products may be contaminated from farm and along the processing chain till

it gets to the final consumer. The bacteria involved in these disease outbreaks include Salmonella,

Campylobacter, Clostridium perfringes and Staphylococcus aureus amongst others. Knowledge about the

profile and numbers of the bacteria when available can help to institute measures to eliminate or reduce

their presence and numbers to appreciable levels. The aim of this study was to investigate the microbial

quality of raw chicken from the BNARI farm. ISO methods were applied to samples from two different

batches to determine Total Viable Count (TVC), Coliforms Count (CC), Staphylococcus aureus Count

(STC), Salmonella Count (SC) in addition to identification of all pathogens. The results of microbial

counts showed that TVC (6.29±1.77), CC (4.27±1.06) and STC (5.2±0.57) realized from raw chicken

from the BNARI farm were all above recommended ICMSF standards. Staphylococcus aureus count is

however yet to be confirmed and Salmonella test is yet to be completed. The study tentatively found

microbial counts of raw chicken carcass from the BNARI farm to be higher than the international

allowable limits suggesting potential problems associated with shelf life.

5.4.11. An Evaluation of the Microbiological Quality of ‘Burkina’ Drink (A Milk-Based Snack) Sold

in Accra

Research team: B. R. Kwota1 and T. Mahami

1Ocumed Diagnostic LTD, Korle-Bu

Abstract

Food safety risks associated with milk products has been widely documented. This study investigated the

microbiological quality of locally produced ‘Burkina’ drink (a locally produced milk-based snack) sold in

Accra, Ghana. Twenty samples (10 samples produced with fresh cow milk and 10 with powdered milk)

were purchased this work. The samples were analyzed for their total viable counts, coliform counts,

Staphylococcus counts and Salmonells/Shigella counts. Specific isolates were also identified. Results of

total viable counts showed that samples prepared with fresh cow milk purchased from MA market were

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higher than those prepared with powdered milk from NI market but all samples from both markets were

found to be unsatisfactory when compared with the ICMSF limits for ready-to-eat foods (<Log10 4.00).

Coliform counts from (MA) market (Log10 2.72- Log103.06) was again higher than that from (NI) market

(15EST- Log103.02) and all samples (100%) from MA market and 8 samples (80%) from NI market had

their coliform counts above the ICMSF limit of < Log10 2.00. Salmonella, Shigella and Staphylococcus

counts were however within the ICMSF allowable limits. Results of bacteria occurrence in samples

showed that Escherichia coli (20%), Klebsiella (40%), Staphylococcus (70%), Citrobacter (10%),

Enterobacter (50%), Proteus (10%) and Pseudomonas (10%) occurred in (MA) market samples whiles

Klebsiella (40%), Staphylococcus (20%), Enterobacter (60%) occurred in (NI) market samples. ‘Burkina’

drink sold in Accra is contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms and higher counts above acceptable

levels which can pose health risk to the consumers.

5.4.12. Assessment of Microbial Quality of Selected Herbal Drugs Sold in the Asante Mampong

Municipality

Research team: K. E. Adepa1 and T. Mahami 1University of Education, Asante Mampong Campus

Abstract

Ten herbal preparations (decoctions) were purchased (5 from an herbal shop)-(Market 1) and (5 from the

open market)-(Market 2) from Mampong in the Asante Mampong municipality, Ghana. The samples were

analyzed for their Total viable counts, coliform counts and yeast and mould count. Specific micro-

organisms including pathogens were also identified. The results of this study showed that Total Viable

counts of all samples from both markets were above the WHO permissible limit of ≤ Log10 5cfu/g even

though counts from market 1(6.12±0.19) were higher than those from market 2 (6.10±1.5). Whereas

coliforms were not detected in market 1, counts in market 2 had a mean count of log101.63±1.31. All

colifom counts were however within the WHO coliform limit of ≤ log10 3. Yeast and mould counts on

samples from Market 2 (log105.75±1.33) was higher than counts from Market 1 (log10 5.40±1.8) and all

counts from both markets were above the WHO limit of ≤ log10 3 cfu/g. Staphylococcus spp (100%),

Asperigillus spp(20%), Colletotrichum spp(60%) and Penicillium spp (100%) were isolated from market

1 samples whiles isolates from market 2 were; Staphylococcus spp (100%), Clostridium spp (60%),

Bacillus spp (40%), E.coli (20%), Klebsiella spp (20%), Enterobacter (40%), Asperigillus spp (40%),

Colletotrichum spp (80%), and Penicillium (100 %). In conclusion, herbal preparations sold in Mampong

were found to be of poor microbiological quality in terms of counts and pathogens isolated. Samples from

the open market had a poorer hygienic quality and posed a higher risk in terms of the pathogens isolated.

More attention should be paid to the microbiological quality of herbal drugs to improve their safety.

5.4.13. Radiation D10 Determination of Bacterial isolates in mango (Mangifera indica) Keitt and

Kent varieties

Research team: Wellington Torgby-Tetteh, Abraham Adu-Gyamfi, Emmanuel K Gasu, Daniel Larbi

Abstract This work attempted to determine the D10 of some bacterial isolates on Keitt and Kent mango varieties.

Mangoes (Keitt variety) were obtained and peel removed aseptically. The mangoes were then cut into

small cubes/dices, put into seven sterile plastic containers and 1ml of already prepared inocula of

Escherichia coli added to each container. The plastic containers were capped and the set-up put into a

refrigerator for 24 hours to allow the inoculated organisms to attach themselves to the mango cubes

before irradiation. After 24 hours they were sent to the Gamma Irradiation Facility where they were

30

irradiated at predetermined doses of 0, 150, 300, 450, 600, 750 and 900Gy. The samples were then taken

immediately to the Microbiological Laboratory for analysis. The work has been repeated thrice and D10

results calculated so far has been found to be far higher than the ones reported in literature.

5.4.14. Antibacterial activity of irradiated powdered Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit and the moisture

sorption isotherm of the whole fruit

Research team: Darfour Bernard, Ofosu Daniel Osei, Asare Kwabena Isaac, Ofori Hayford, Agbemafle

Evans and Atter Amy.

Abstract

To assess the microbial load and antibacterial activity of irradiated T. tetraptera fruit and the appropriate

equilibrium relative humidity for the storage of irradiated fruit of T. tetraptera. The whole fruit was

analyzed for aerobic mesophiles count and moisture sorption isotherm was determined; while the

powdered samples were analyzed for antibacterial potency. Irradiating the samples reduced the microbial

load significantly. A dose of 10 kGy eliminated all microflora from the products while a dose of 5 kGy

reduced the initial microbial count from 1.1x104 to 80 CFU/g (i.e. 93 % reduction). The net gain of

moisture by fruits stored at 55 % to 75 % ERH was minimal and no growth of fungi was observed on the

fruits. ERH above 75 % reintroduce some microbes. Irradiation completely eliminated the microflora at

10 kGy and substantially reduced the antibacterial ability of T. tetraptera fruit against the bacteria strains

studied. The irradiated and unirradiated T. tetraptera fruits were better stored up to 75 % equilibrium

relative humidity.

5.4.15. Effect of Radiation on Some Quality Parameters of Peanut Butter

Project team: Adjoa K. Sarfo, Wellington Torgby-Tetteh, Dora Duah-Bissiw, Stanley Acquah and

Abraham Adu-Gyamfi

Abstract

Peanut butter or paste is a key ingredient in the preparation of the popular Ghanaian dish, groundnut soup

and also widely used as a spread for bread and cookies. Peanut butter has been implicated in a number of

cautions issued by the European Union on the safety of non-traditional food exports from Ghana. This is

likely to be as a result of the methods used traditionally in drying, storage and processing of peanut butter.

In addition, there have been cases of widespread food poisoning in the United States which have been

traced to peanut butter contaminated with Salmonella or Listeria. These have necessitated the exploration

of different methods of treating peanut butter to reduce levels of microbial contamination. In this study,

jars of peanut butter obtained from the Food Research Institute of CSIR were exposed to gamma radiation

from a cobalt 60 source at doses of 0 to 5 kGy. The irradiated samples were screened for the presence of

E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus and the total viable count. Low counts were measured for

total viable counts and Staphylococcus aureus while E.coli and Salmonella were not detected. The

peroxide value of the peanut butter remained relatively unchanged by the irradiation up to 5 kGy. Sensory

analysis was conducted on the irradiated peanut butter and was found to be generally acceptable.

5.4.16. Physicochemical and functional qualities of tiger nut tubers (Cyperus esculentus), maize and

soybean (Glycine max) infant food mix

Project team: Abenaa A. Okyere, Leticia A. Twum, Isaac D. Kottoh, Dora Duah-Bisiw, Wellington

Torgby-Tetteh, Ernestina A. Ayeh, Daniel Larbi, Isaac K. Asare

31

Abstract

Seven infant food formulations: TMS1, TMS2, TMS3, TMS4, TMS5, TMS5b and TMS6 were prepared

by mixing varying proportions of the flours from tiger nut, maize and soybean. The physicochemical,

functional, pasting, sensory and microbial qualities of the food formulations were determined using

standard methods. Results obtained so far indicate a moisture range of 5.52±0.06% to 6.57±0.21%, a

protein content range of 3.23±0.09% to 4.53±0.03%, and ash content range of 2.05±0.05% to

2.67±0.10%. Functional properties analysed so far also indicate water absorption capacity, bulk density,

swelling power index and solubility range of 12.67±0.58% to 14.33±1.53%, 0.76±0.03g/cm3 to

0.86±0.03g/cm3, 3.98±0.58g/g to 5.40±0.14g/g and 16.67±2.08% to 27.0±2.00% respectively. The

potential suitability of tigernut flour in weaning food formulation could be observed in this study and as

such tigernut could be used to control or curbing malnutrition in infants.

5.4.17. Gamma Irradiation of Tetrapleura Tetraptera Fruit as a Post-Harvest Technique and its

Subsequent Effect on some Phytochemicals, Free Scavenging Activity and Physicochemical

Properties.

Research team: B. Darfour a, S. Agbenyegah b, D. O. Ofosu a, A. A. Agyeman a and I. K. Asare a

a Radiation Technology Centre, Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute, Ghana Atomic

Energy Commission, Ghana

b Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission, Ghana

Abstract:

Herbs, spices and medicinal plants have been cherished by many ancient cultures for their use in curing

common ailments and promoting good health. The dry fruit of Tetrapleura tetraptera has a pleasant

aroma and hence used as a spice for seasoning in many parts of Ghana. Contamination of the fruit can

occur at any stage during harvesting, drying, processing, transportation and storage. T. tetraptera is prone

to microbial contamination and insect infestation resulting in quality deterioration and economic loss. The

study aimed at establishing the effect of gamma irradiation as a post-harvest processing technique on T.

tetraptera fruit and the subsequent effect of the gamma irradiation on some phytochemicals, free radical

scavenging activity and physicochemical properties. The T. tetraptera powder was packed in polythene

bags and gamma irradiated with Cobalt 60 source at 5 and 10 kGy at room temperature at a dose rate of 2

kGy/hr. The total phenolic content, total flavonoid and DPPH free radical scavenging activity, pH, lactic

acid, vitamin C, moisture, carbohydrate, protein and trace element content of the samples were analysed.

The antioxidant potential of the T. tetraptera extract was observed to be enhanced in the solvent used for

the extraction after the irradiation but not the radiation dose used. The irradiation had an effect on all the

physicochemical properties of the sample measured except on the moisture content. The T. tetraptera

studied was safe for human consumption as far as trace metal levels are concerned. This study therefore

suggests that gamma irradiation up to 10 kGy could be used as a post-harvest technique in T. tetraptera

without any substantial effect on the health benefits as a spice or herb.

5.4.18. Evaluating the effects of gamma irradiation and storage period on the phytochemical

stability of some selected spices on the Ghanaian market

Research Team: 1I.D. Kottoh, A. A. 2Agyekum, 2F. Akuamoa, 1I. Asare.

1Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute-GAEC, 2Radiological and Medical Research Institute-GAEC

32

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of gamma irradiation treatment and storage period on the

phytochemical stability of some spices (Eugenia caryophyllata, Xylopia aethiopica and Aframomum

melegueta) on the Ghanaian market. The radiation processing was carried out on dose levels of 0, 5, 10

and 20kGy over a period of four months. The irradiated and control samples were analysed for Total

flavonoids, Total Phenolics, Vitamin C and DPPH radical-scavenging activity for both aqueous and

ethanolic extracts with the exception of Vitamin C.

5.4.19. Pre-treatment effect on the colour quality of fresh oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus)

Research Team: Abenaa A. Okyere, Emmanuel K. Gasu, Isaac K. Asare, Dora Duah-Bissiw, Felicia

Akuamoa1 and Theodosia Adom1

1 Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute, GAEC

Abstract

Mushrooms are rich sources of proteins, vitamins and minerals. Drying of mushroom confers a stabilising

property on it for storage over a longer period. The colour quality of the dried oyster mushroom with

different pre-treatment techniques was determined. The samples were treated with 10g/l citric acid, 10g/l

NaCl, 10g/l ascorbic acid and a control. All these samples were blanched for 3 minutes and were then

allowed to strain dry. From the present study the mushroom samples steeped in citric acid solution and

air-oven dried exhibited better visual colour quality.

5.4.20. Determination of the microbiological quality and antimicrobial efficacy of fresh and dried

Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

Research team: Ofosu Daniel Osei, Darfour Bernard, Asare Isaac K., Larbi Daniel, Adu- Gyamfi

Abraham

Abstract

This present study assessed the microbial contamination that might arise as a result of the recommended

drying methods on the recommended cinnamon plant parts and the efficacy of extracts from different

dried cinnamon parts on selected microorganisms. Drying had an effect on the microbial count

Cinnamomum zeylanicum. All the drying methods employed had lower microbial counts than the fresh

samples. Extracts from the oven dried root samples generally had a higher zone of inhibition than samples

dried under shade. Extracts of both the root and bark could not inhibit the growth of E. coli. The fresh

bark is better at inhibiting the growth of Pseudomonas sp than the fresh root samples. However, extracts

can be effective at controlling the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus.

5.4.21. Evaluation of Microbial Quality and Elemental Composition of Selected Street Delicacies: A

Case Study in Some Parts of the Eastern and Volta Region of Ghana.

Research team: Kottoh I.D, Ofosu D. O., Frimpong G.K, Larbi D.

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Abstract

Street delicacies are ready-to-eat foods prepared and sold by vendors and hawkers in streets and public

places. Consumption of street delicacies contaminated with microorganisms is suspected to be a factor in

outbreaks of some public health diseases. The microbial quality of some street delicacies in some parts of

the Eastern and Volta regions of Ghana were evaluated. The parameters examined were the total viable

count, total coliform count, pH, moisture and as well as their elemental composition. Results obtained

indicate the total viable counts were relatively low and were within acceptable limits (0-4.59 log10cfu/g).

However, coliform counts (3.20±0.02 log10cfu/g) for snail kebab in Kpong was above the acceptable

limits. The moisture content for the samples in the various localities ranged from 0.67 % to 1.90%. The

samples tested contained the elements, Fe, Mg, K, Na, Zn and Mn in different concentrations.

5.4.22. Pre-treatment effects on some proximate and phytochemical components of peeled and

unpeeled ginger powder.

Research team: Dora Duah-Bisiw, Abenaa A. Okyere, Isaac K. Asare, Bernard Darfour and Shadrach

Donkor

Abstract

Pre-treatment effects on the quality of oven–dried peeled and unpeeled ginger, grown locally form

Kadjebi in the Volta Region of Ghana was evaluated by determining proximate and phytochemical

content using conventionally accepted methods. The pre-drying treatments investigated were dipping in

10% citric acid solution, dipping in 10% ascorbic acid solution, dipping in 10% sodium chloride solution

and a control. The pre-treatments resulted in varied results in the pH, protein, vitamin C and TTA

readings. The vitamin C content of the treated peeled and unpeeled samples, with ascorbic acid scored

the highest value of 0.54±0.01 mg/100ml for peeled and 0.95±0.01 mg/100ml for unpeeled ginger. No

significant difference was observed between the control of both peeled and unpeeled samples with respect

to the protein content. However, there were significant differences in the treated peeled and unpeeled

ginger samples. Peeled ginger, pre-treated with citric acid recorded the highest protein value of

9.63±0.11%. Unpeeled ginger samples exhibited higher antioxidant components than peeled ginger

samples.

5.4.23. Effect of Time and Temperature on the Colour, ph and Ascorbic Acid Content of Sorghum

Bicolour Stalks

Research team: Adjoa Kesewaa Sarfo, Mavis Owureku-Asare, Daniel O. Ofosu, Joyce Agyei-

Amponsah, John Apatey, Daniel Larbi, Ernestina Ayeh

Abstract:

Stalks of sorghum bicolor are common ingredient for “waakye”, a combination of cooked rice and beans

that originated from northern Ghana. The stalks are used mainly for the deep colour it imparts to the food

being cooked. It is generally known that the longer the stalks are cooked the more colour is extracted

from them. There is however no data available on how long the stalks must be cooked to obtain the best

colour from them and the effect of these long cooking times on the beneficial components of the stalks.

Additionally, there is no major value-added product on the market which provides a simpler method of

cooking or a packaged product which is not as susceptible to contamination. This study seeks to provide

baseline information that will be used to develop an improved product that can replace the stalks as used

presently. Sorghum stalks were purchased from the Madina market, sorted to remove those with visible

fungal infection and trimmed down to the main stalk. The stalks were then cut into three sizes: six inch

long ‘whole’ stalks, coarsely chopped stalks and finely milled stalks. 15g of each sample was placed in a

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beaker with 300ml of water and left to steep for 20, 40 and 60 mins at room temperature and in a water

bath at approximately 95°C. Ascorbic acid content, pH and l*a*b* colour were analysed for the various

samples. Ascorbic acid content increased with increasing steeping time and was significantly more

effective at 95°C. The pH of samples did not change significantly with temperature or steeping time with

an average of 7.03± 0.19.

5.4.24. Hospital equipment as a source of nosocomial infection: a case study of sonography

equipment in Accra

Research team: Stephen T. Odonkor1, Theophilus Sackey1 and Tahiru Mahami

1Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute (RAMSRI)

Abstract

Medical equipment has been the subject of several studies to determine its role in cross-infection as these

devices comes into direct contact with patients. With increasing use of ultrasound in medical diagnosis,

there is the potential for transmission of nosocomial infection via the ultrasound probe, ultrasound couch

and also the coupling. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of pathogens on the ultrasound

machines and couch/ bed. Microbiological cultures were carried out on samples obtained from ultrasound

probes, gel and couch before and after the scanning period. Cultures were incubated in a culture plate for

48 hours at a temperature of 37 0C in order to grow microorganisms. The isolated microorganisms were

identified and characterized by conventional methods. The findings of the study showed that the Trans-

abdominal ultrasound probes, - probe, and ultrasound couch were all contaminated with microorganisms.

Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequent and most common organisms found (27%). This was

followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis and Candida albicans both with 15.4% each. The least bacteria

isolate (2) was Enterococcus faecalis, representing 7.7%. The following microbes: Klebseilla pneumonia,

Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans where not isolated from the

ultrasound couch/bed. Generally more microbes were isolated from the trans-abdominal probe (15) than

the Trans-vaginal probe (8). In conclusion, Ultrasound equipment is a possible source of nosocomial

infection for patients undergoing ultrasonography. There is a need for proper decontamination of the

ultrasound probes and couch/bed, to avoid cross infections.

5.4.25. Non-Carcinogenic Risk and Annual Effective Dose Assessment of Airborne 238U and 232Th

Exposure of People Living in the Vicinity of a Cement Factory in Ghana

Project team: 1M. A. Addo, 2E.O. Darko, 3C. Gordon, 4P. Davor, 1J. K. Gbadago, 2A. Faanu, 2D. Kpeglo, 1F. Ameyaw

1National Nuclear Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission 2Radiation Protection Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission 3Institute of Environmental Science Studies, University of Ghana 4Biotechnology & Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute, Ghana Atomic Energy Commission

Abstract Globally, the cement industry has been identified as one which causes significant particle pollution. In

Ghana, environmental research in the neighbourhood of the cement industry especially on human health

is scanty. In the present work, attempts were made to evaluate the concentration of airborne dust at

various distances and directions around the Diamond Cement factory in the Volta Region of Ghana. The

samples of dust were collected on filter papers and later analysed for the concentration (mg/kg) of 232Th

35

and 238U using Neutron Activation Analysis. The principal objective of the study was to generate data

intended at assessing the annual effective dose and the non-cancinogenic risk due to 232Th and 238U

inhalation for both adult and children population living in the vicinity of cement factory. The data

generated were supposed to assist in remediation decision making. The study recorded high incidence of

total dust concentration which is above permissible limit. The study indicated no non-carcinogenic health

effect for the targeted population but observed that adults more that the children population risk health

effects due to the inhalation of the two radionuclides. From the radiological point of view, the study

concluded that the people living in the vicinity of the cement factory are not at risk to significant

radiological hazards. However, the study was of the view that to have a complete evaluation of impact of

the factory on the environment assessment programmes should include both chemical and radiological

toxicity.

5.5. SOIL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES RESEARCH CENTRE

5.5.1. Morphological Variation and Host Range Potential of Some Local Lima Bean (Phaseolus

lunatus L.) Bradyrhizobia Isolates from the Coastal Savannah Agro-Ecological Zone of Ghana.

Research Team: E.O. Ayeh, D.K. Asare, J.O. Frimpong, S. Amiteye, J.O. Osei Sintim, S.N.A. Nettey, B.

Offei and M. Dodobi

Abstract

Lima beans like most legumes, when incorporated into cropping systems, contribute immensely to the

maintenance of soil structure, weed suppression, nutrient recycling, production of mulches, green

manures, forage as well as food for animals or humans. However, the legume is one of the lesser-known

and under-exploited legumes in Ghana. Hence, research findings on the legume are not readily available

as compared to other common legumes species such as cowpea, soybean or groundnut. This research

investigated the six lima bean cultivars for grain yield and their nodulating Rhizoboa strains in terms of

effective nodulation, dry biomass production, as well as grain and atmospheric N yields under rain-fed

condition in the field and in pots. Lima bean cultivars LB3 and LB4 recorded the highest but statistically

similar mean nodule numbers of 748.4 and 667.2, respectively, whilst LB2 and LB5 had the least number

of nodules of 247.4 and 216.0, respectively. For effective mean nodule numbers, however, LB6 and LB4

had statistically similar and highest values of 207.8 and 216.4, respectively, which were significantly

different (p≤0.01) from values obtained for LB3 (160.6), LB1 (129.6) and LB2 (107.4). The lima bean

cultivar LB5 had the least mean effective nodule number of 88.0 whereas LB1, LB3 and LB4 produced

statistically similar nodule dry weight of 0.74 g, 0.67 g and 0.67 g, respectively, which were all

significantly different (p≤0.01) from the mean values of 0.53g and 0.49 for LB6 and LB2, respectively.

Additionally, the lima bean cultivar LB5 had the lowest mean nodule dry weight value of 0.34 g. This

project, therefore, is a further work to evaluate the morphological characteristics and host-range potential

of the lima bean Rhizobia strains.

5.5.2. Evaluating the Impact of Synthetic Herbicides on Soil-Dwelling Organisms and Physico-

Chemical Characteristics of Soil in an Agro-Ecosystem

Research Team: E.O. Ayeh, M. Osae, S. Ofori, J.O. Frimpong, J.O. Sintim, B. Off and M. Dodobi

Abstract

Most agronomic practices, especially those targeted at pest and weed control, pose adverse effects to the

environment. These effects are greatest on beneficial non-target organisms such as pollinators, insect

natural enemies and decomposers. Herbicides may act directly by killing some of these organisms or

indirectly by repelling them or removing their preferred food sources. However, the extent and exact

36

effect prevailing in agro-ecosystems that rely on synthetic chemicals for weed control is not well

understood. The objective of this project, therefore, is to evaluate soil application of three different

herbicide active ingredients, Glyphosate, Paraquat Dichloride and Dimethyl ammonium in commercial

formulations against weed control on soil dwelling organisms as well as the physico-chemical properties

of the affected soil in a 4 x 3 nested factorial arrangement. The study would be carried out at the BNARI

research farm on a 3-year fallow field, after the field has been ploughed and harrowed and left for about 3

weeks to regain weed growth and soil equilibrium. Sampling of soil for physical and chemical properties

analysis would include the soil water content, dry soil bulk density, soil particle size fraction, soil

hydraulic parameters, soil reaction (pH), organic matter content, cation exchange capacity (CEC), basic

cations, nitrate-nitrogen and ammonium-nitrogen and available phosphorus. Additionally, sampling of

soil for microbial and macrobial analysis (identification and quantification per unit area) would be done to

identify soil bacteria, soil fungi, soil actinomycetes, soil algae as well as arthropods and molluscs. All

computations would be done with the aid of the Microsoft excel. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) will be

performed with the aid of the Genstats statistical software and means for the treatments under study will

also be separated or compared by the Lsd approach at 5% probability level.

5.5.3. Establishment of self sustaining black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae)

for feed and fertilizer production in Ghana.

Research Team: Ewusie, E. A., Kwapong, P. K., Ofosu-Budu, G., Stamer, A.

Abstract

This study offers an in-depth guide to the setting up of a black soldier fly (BSF), Hermetia illucens,

production scheme. It provides the basic information on materials and technical know-how needed to

establish a working system which can be used for small scale production of BSF larvae of Hermetia

illucens, high quality compost/bio-fertilizer and fish and monogastrics feed. To achieve this objective, an

efficient breeding enclosure must be set up which will provide eggs and young larvae that are captured

and grown in separate vessels. The environmental conditions (temperature and humidity) for this part of

the production line are the most critical, to ensure that mating occurs and that oviposition is performed in

an adequate manner. The further growing of the larvae is the least difficult to maintain. However certain

hurdles must be overcome and decisions must be made regarding the nature of the system. Firstly, that the

larvae are most nutritious before the onset of pupation which poses problems as to their collection at this

stage and secondly regarding the optimum use of the feedstock and hence the compost or the harvesting

of the larvae for feed production.

5.5.4. Development of black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) in selected

organic market waste in Accra

Research Team: Ewusie, E. A., Kwapong, P. K., Ofosu-Budu, G., Stamer, A.

Abstract

The objective was to test the effectiveness of different organic market wastes for the production of

Hermetia illucens. Biowastes were composted in an 8.5 L waste bins (50cm x 30cm) covered with a

sewn muslin cloth shower caps with an elastic band at the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission’s

Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute Black soldier fly building. Approximately 76g

(˷1543-1585 in numbers) of BSF were inoculated in the waste. The feed stock were fruit wastes only,

vegetable wastes only, uncooked food wastes only (i.e. cassava, plantain, cocoyam, yam etc) and

materials with high C/N ratio (i.e. corn husk, etc), a combination of fruit wastes + vegetable wastes, fruit

wastes + uncooked food wastes and fruit wastes + materials with high C/N ratio, a combination of the

37

entire market wastes. The reduction in waste was 26 - 77%, and the composition of feedstock had a

significant effect on larval weight and length.

5.5.5. Use of a germination bioassay to evaluate the maturity of black soldier larvae compost from

municipal market waste

Research Team: Ewusie, E. A., Kwapong, P. K., Ofosu-Budu, G., Stamer, A.

Abstract

The composting process of four market wastes and combinations of the four were examined in an 8.5 L

waste bins (50cm x 30cm) covered with a sewn muslin cloth shower caps with an elastic band.

Approximately 76g (˷1543-1585 in numbers) of BSF were inoculated in the waste. The experiment used

one time feeding (lump feeding) of eleven feedstock preparations (MW1 – MW11). The feed stock were

fruit waste only, vegetable waste only, uncooked food waste only (i.e. cassava, plantain, cocoyam, yam

etc) and materials with high C/N ratio (i.e. corn husk, etc), a combination of fruit waste + Vegetable

waste, Fruit waste + uncooked food waste and fruit waste + materials with high C/N ratio, a combination

of the entire market waste. Equal quantities of the above feedstock without larvae served as control. Five

percent by weight biochar was added in all instances

5.5.6. Organic Fertilizer Development from Organic Wastes for Nursing and Transplantation of

Mango as a Conservation Agriculture Measure.

Research Team: Nettey S. N. A, Agodzo S. K2, Ofori E., Dodobi M. T and Offei B.

Abstract

The threat to Ghana's future food production and food security could be linked to the fast rate of

agricultural soil degradation (soil fertility and productivity decline), caused by bush burning and

inadequate nutrient management strategies required to offset nutrients utilized by harvested food which

had been found to be more than that replaced by farm fertilizer input. This study was aimed at

investigating for a sustainable measure of closing nutrients loop which starts from captured nutrients in

harvested food to consumers and onward discharge as wastes. A pathogen-free organic fertilizer-product

was developed through composting of organic wastes (e.g. municipal solid and/or slaughter waste).

Incubation analysis on this compost product revealed that despite an increase in amount of compost

mixed with the soil (60 mg and 80 mg total N per 50 g soil), the N release pattern did not increase by an

increase of the quantity of the compost. This implies that the use of this compost as the sole source of

nutrients for crop cultivation will be inadequate. Hence, the possibility of enriching the compost with

other inorganic sources of plant nutrient should be considered. The release pattern also indicated that the

compost should be applied some weeks prior to the cropping period. Preliminary experimental work on

the response of mango seedlings to the compost product indicated that the 1:2 sand to compost ratio

within the 15cm x 20cm black polyethylene bag, used as the nursery container, gave the optimum

performance of growth parameters analyzed.

5.5.7. Impact Analysis of Compost and Chemical Fertilizer on the Performance of Mango

Seedlings.

***** define all treatments

Research Team: Nettey S. N. A., Amoatey H. M., Asare D. K., Dodobi M., Nunekpeku W. and Offei B.

38

Abstract

The general public, agronomists and environmental scientists have concerns on the effect of chemical

fertilizer on agricultural soils and the health of farmers during crop production. This study investigated

the combine effect of different rates of organic (from organic fraction of market waste) and chemical

fertilizers on the growth of mango seedlings at nursery and after transplanting. The bagged soils into

which the pre-nursed local mango seeds were transplanted had different levels of compost treatments

(weight basis) and arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD). Seedling heights, leaf lengths,

leaf widths, radius of spread and petiole lengths, petiole diameter and stem girth were measured. In

addition, leaf emission rate was assessed by counting the number of leave cumulatively at defined time

intervals. Application of the first dosage of the chemical fertilizer was administered only after the

seedlings had been transplanted into the poly-bags. Data collected were analyzed statistically. The mango

seedlings performed significantly different (p<0.05) in terms of growth characteristics using the soil-

compost and chemical fertilizer treatments.

1. Evaluation of Organic Fertilizer on Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L. [Alef.]; Fam-

Cruciferae) Production: Effect on Growth, Yield and Soil Characteristics

Nettey S. N. A. SERSC, Nunekpeku W. NARC, Robert Impraim (IWMI), Asare D.K. SERSC,

Dodobi M. SERSC, Offei B. K., SERSC

To evaluate the effects of different organic fertilizers (compost from Dewatered Faecal Sludge

{DFS}, co-compost from a predominantly orange-Market Waste and Saw Dust {MW-SD},

compost from Cow Dung {CD}, co-compost from a predominantly Water-Melon-Market Waste

and Saw Dust {MMW-SD}) on the growth, yield and quality of Cabbage (Brassica Oleracea var.

capita L), the Oxylus variety of Cabbage was cultivated in one ecological zone of Ghana (Coastal

Savannah Zone). The seedlings were planted in a Randomized Complete Block Design (CRBD)

and given different treatments of organic fertilizer (3kg/bed of size 10x5m, 6kg/bed of size

10x5m and 9kg/bed of size 10x5m) by split application. The setup was replicated four times and

each plant was irrigated with 100% of the estimated crop water requirement. Neem Tree Extract

was used to control insect attack on the crop. The Cabbage is still young to come out with any

meaningful data. The crop is expected to mature in 3 months from the time of planting (June,

2014) after which it will be harvested.

2. Modeling of Mango Growing Potential Areas of Ghana

Nettey S. N. A1, Agodzo S. K.2, Ofori E. 2, Amoatey H. M.3 Walter M4 Seyram K.5

Fresh fruits and vegetables industries have played vital roles in the horticultural sub-sector of the

Ghanaian national economy. However, Ghana's commercial production capacity for the said fruit

crop is low since the fruit is cultivated within only three out of the six agro-ecological zones

(AEZ). This research was aimed at using available data on factors that contribute to the

production of the case study crop (e.g. climatic, soil quality, relief and land-cover parameters) to

model delineated areas within the country's agro-ecological zones where potential mango

growing activities could be established. By using the technique of super-imposition, the resultant

map-model obtained was used to proof that mango orchards could do well in the Coastal

Savannah, Sudan Savannah, Transitional and the Guinea Savannah Zones, than in areas

delineated within the Semi Deciduous and Rain forest zone of Ghana's AEZ. This helps to

conclude that Ghana has a niche potential with regard to her soil quality, elevation and land cover

parameters for large scale production of the case study fruit for both local and foreign markets

destinations.

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3. Comparative Analysis of Allocative Efficiency of Resource Use among Irrigated and Rain-fed

Mango Farms in Two Agro-ecological Zones.

Nettey S. N. A1, Agodzo S. K.2, Ofori E. 2, Fialor S.C2, Amoatey H. M.3

The study compared allocative efficiency among irrigated mango farmers who practiced

improvised irrigation input technology on their orchards and rain-fed mango farmers who had no

form of irrigation input technology to meet crop water needs of their orchards. Cross sectional

data generated from a total of 40 mango farmers randomly selected from 2 (Coastal Savannah and

Transitional Zones) out of the 6 agricultural zones in Ghana were used. The Cobb Douglas

production function was used in analyzing the data. Results showed that rain-fed and irrigated

mango farmers in neither of the two zones understudied achieved optimum allocative efficiency

in the use of input resources of land, labour and capital. This implies that resource reallocation is

needed to optimize efficiency for profit maximization. In this study, land input resources in all

locations under scrutiny, needs to be increased in use and at the same vein, labour resource must

be decrease for an optimum allocative efficiency. Apart from irrigated farming type in the Coastal

Savannah Zone where capital input resources is much needed and therefore needs to be increased,

capital input resources must be decreased in the other aspects. Findings therefore holds that the

problem of low mango productivity is identified as the inability of farmers to make use of

available farm input resources efficiently. Landlords, investors must be encouraged to apportion

various amount of land resource and financial resources respectively into the mango sub-sector to

maximize production in both farm type scenarios. This will help to vigorously sustained and

attain the 10,000 tonnes yield level set for 2015 by the Ghana Export Promotion Council (GEPC).

4. Effect of Compost and Inorganic Fertilizer on the Growth and Yield of Maize in the Coastal

Savannah Zone of Ghana.

Nettey S. N. A1, Agodzo S. K.2, Dodobi, M. T. 3, Offei, B. K.3

A field trial was carried out in the coastal savannah belt of Ghana's agro-ecological zone at the

Biotechnology and Nuclear Agricultural Research Institute (BNARI) of Ghana Atomic Energy

Commission, using a municipal solid waste based compost (made at BNARI) and inorganic

fertilizer (NPK: 15:15:15). A factorial design comprising of one soil factor, three application rates

(0, 150 and 210 kg N/ha) and two N sources. (MSW-Fert. and inorganic N fertilizer, IN-F). NPK

15:15:15 was used as reference N sources as part of the evaluation of the MSW compost. Maize

(cv. Obantapa) is a relatively uniform plant and sensitive to nutrient dynamics and deficiencies. It

is therefore a preferred plant in conducting soil and nutrient analysis (Boyanapalle 2004). The

objectives of the study were to compare the effects that soil amended with (different application

rates of) or without MSW based compost and/or with NPK, on the following maize parameters:

(a) growth and yield (b) nutrient uptake (c) agronomic, physiological nitrogen use efficiency and

percentage N recovery in the soil. Maize plants was sown at a planting distance of 80 cm

(between rows) and 40 cm (within row), at a density of 5 seeds per planting position and later

thinned to 2 uniform seedlings 7 days after emergence (DAE). The said factorial experiment was

conducted in a completely randomized design with three replicate. Maize (cv. Obamtampa) was

grown 15 sub-plots, each of 6 m x 4 m in size. At the flowering stage, plants were harvested from

five plant positions within each sub-plot and used to quantify aboveground dry matter and

nutrient uptake. Another five plant positions were harvested at physiological maturity stages, to

40

quantify the yield, components of yield, and nutrient uptake. Chemical analysis of the plant

materials are currently on-going.

reduced appreciably by the formulated treatment schemes. The treatment schemes are being

reviewed.

5. A cost-effective treatment approach of salty groundwater resource for irrigation: case study on

okra and maize cultivation using treated saline borehole water.

Nettey S. N. A., Dampare S. B., Ganyaglo, S. Y., Dodobi M.T, Offei B. K.

Water softening equipment uses the technique of ions (sodium and chloride) exchange to purify

saline water source. However, the high cost of water softening equipments coupled with the ever-

rising cost of fuelling a generator which is a requisite for operating the said equipment, adds to the

cost of using a saline water source for crop production. The objective of this study was therefore to

investigate for a cost effective means of treating saline water for agricultural purpose.

Use was made of mixtures of saw dust, clay source (all local materials) and potassium sulphate to

mould ceramic pots that served both as filtering units and ion exchange medium. The general

suitability of water for crop production was assessed by measuring the total dissolved solids

(TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), Sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) and Alkalinity of the

irrigation water source. The initial result from the laboratory analysis indicated that the level of

saltiness in sampled water was

TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY CENTRE

5.5.1: Improving market demand and productivity level for an underutilized yam (Dioscorea

esculenta) characteristics in Ghana using mutation breeding: implications for crop breeding and

production choices

Research team: Banson K., Danso K.E. and Yaro M.

Abstract

Yam (Dioscorea spp.), especially D. esculenta locally called “oboedunum” is a high value commodity.

But it is also a threatened species in Ghana, due to several factors including neglect on the part of science,

technology, research and development – and, more importantly, their displacement by improved varieties,

mining activities, bush fires, infrastructure development and over-grazing. Their full potential for income

generation both through domestic markets and the export trade has not been realised due to neglect in

production, handling and trading systems as a result of it poor sizes that inhibit its use for food and

agriculture in Ghana. The purpose of this study was to improve the size and market value of D. esculenta

using different doses of radiation to promote the effective use of these species and enhance effective

conservation and sustainable use for food, agriculture and industry. We observed through repeated

experiments that irradiation of yam planting material at 40 Gy gave the best results producing a M1

generation with a decreased number of tubers but with an increased tuber size per vine. The weight of

these tubers was on average 1 kg against 0.3 kg for the tubers of the control (unradiated planting

41

material). Some characteristics are valued more than others, and prices vary across species, time, and

market sites. Some residual symptoms of pest and disease damages on yam tubers reduce their market

values. Tuber weight exhibits an increasing marginal value and price per kilogram increases above an

optimum size; therefore, producers derive additional reward from extra-large tubers. We conclude that, to

effectively access and benefit from urban markets, producers should focus on the improved size and

conical shaped-tubers, which are easy to process and meet the aesthetic qualities preferred by urban

consumers. The implications for research on improved variety development to reduce poverty and for

crop and resource management practices are drawn. This is a collaborative research between the

Biotechnology Centre and the TTC

5.5.2: Cost benefit analysis of irradiation to conventional medical sterilization

Research team: Banson K., Kondo E. and Evans M.

Abstract

This study carried out a cost-benefit analysis of alternative methods of medical items sterilization on three

main hospitals in Greater Accra Region of Ghana which are the most patronized with the highest out

patients’ attendance rate. The results of the study shows that among five alternative methods, the net

present value (NPV) of the promoted technological method, i.e., irradiation sterilization, was lower than

the NPVs of some of the other methods. Conversely, a sensitivity analysis to determine the “best case”

and “worst case” scenarios shows that the “best case” (providing the highest benefits) is the irradiation

sterilization which is highly energy efficient and still achieving the highest sterility assurance level.

Money saved as a result of saved electricity can be used to increased medical items. The government

should implement policies to promote the use of radiation as a means of sterilization not only for medical

items but also for the food and herbal medicinal products as well as provide the necessary technical and

financial support to encourage irradiation sterilization, especially of medium and large-scale enterprises

that require it. Radiation sterilization has potential economic value, but that potential is not being realized.

There is a pressing need to create the necessary conditions that would allow this readily available efficient

and energy saving sterilization method to be fully tapped, thus benefiting both the Hospitals, Processing

industries, farmers as well as the economy of Ghana.

6.0 PUBLICATIONS

6.1. Published Peer-reviewed Journal Articles

1. Adu-Gyamfi, A., Appiah, V. and Nketsia-Tabiri, J. (2014). Preliminary Studies on Decontamination of

Some Dried Herbal Products by Gamma Irradiation. Journal of Medicinal Plant Research, 8 (2), 116-120.

2. Adu-Gyamfi, A. and Mahami, T. (2014). Effect of drying method and irradiation on the

microbiological quality of dried moringa leaves. International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences, 3

(2), 91-96.

3. Adu-Gyamfi, A., Riverson, N.M., Afful, N. and Appiah, V. (2014). Effect of gamma irradiation,

packaging and storage on the microbiological quality of garden eggs. International Journal of Nutrition

and Food Sciences, 3 (4): 40-346.

4. Agbemavor, W. S. K., Torgby-Tetteh, W., Quartey, E. K., Nunoo, J., Nunekpeku, W., Owureku-Asare,

M., Agyei-Amponsah, J., Apatey, J. (2014). Physico-chemical evaluation of fruits from the fourth filial

42

generation of some breeding lines of tomatoes. International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences,

3(4): 318-325.

5. Joyce Agyei-Amponsah, Mavis Owureku-Asare, Wisdom Selorm K. Agbemavor, Jonathan Armah,

Abena Okyere, Elvis Baidoo, Solomon Dowuona and Charles Tortoe. (2014). - Quality Characteristics

of Pre-treated Yam Chips Produced from Irradiated Yams. British Journal of Applied Science &

Technology, 4(36) pp21- 31, 2014.

6. Ahiakpa J. K., Amoatey H. M., Amenorpe G., J. Apatey, Ayeh E. A. and Agbemavor W. S. K. (2014).

Mucilage contents of 21 accessions of okra (Abelmoschus spp (L.) Moench). Sc. Agri. 2(2): 96-101.

7. Ahiakpa, J. K., Quartey, E. K., Amenorpe, G., Klu, G. Y. P., Agbemavor, W. S. K., & Amoatey, H. M.

(2014). Essential Mineral Elements Profile of 22 Accessions of Okra (Abelmoschus spp L.) from eight

regions of Ghana. Journal of Agricultural Science, 6(5):18-25.

8. Amoakoah Twum, L., Kottoh, I.D., I. K. Asare, I.K., Torby-Tetteh, W., Serwah Buckman, E. and Adu-

Gyamfi, A. (2015) Nutritional and Elemental Analyses of Banana Composite Flour for Infants. British

Journal of Applied Science and Technology, 6(3), 276-288.

9. Appiah, A.S., E.K. Quartey, H.M. Amoatey, W. Nunekpeku, M. Owusu-Ansah and S. Ofori (2014).

Response of Nine Cultivars of Pepper (Capsicum spp.) to Infection by Four Viruses under Natural Field

Conditions in the Coastal Savanna Zone of Ghana. Research Journal of Applied Sciences, Engineering

and Technology, 7(5): 903-907.

10. Banson, K.E., Asare, D., Heng, L, Cobbinah, J.F. and Adu-Sarkodieh, A. (2014). Impact of small

scale irrigation technologies on poverty alleviation among peri-urban and urban farmers. Journal of Life

Sciences 8(2):142 – 151.

11. Clarkson, Chris S., Weetman, David, Essandoh, John, Yawson, Alexander E., Maslen, Gareth,

Manske, Magnus, Field, Stuart G., Webster, Mark, Antao, Tiago, MacInnis, Bronwyn, Kwiatkowski,

Dominic and Donnelly, Martin (2014) 'Adaptive introgression between Anopheles sibling species

eliminates a major genomic island but not reproductive isolation'. Nature Communications, Vol 5:4248.

12. Darfour, B., Annan, S and Ayeh, E.A. (2013). The Rheological Profile of Cereal Flour Composites as

affected by Gamma Irradiation. International Journal of Recent Trends in Science and Technology. 9 (1),

47-51.

13. Darfour, B., Agbenyegah, S., Ofosu, D.O., Okyere, A.A. and I.K. Asare, I.K. (2014). Gamma

irradiation of Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit as a post-harvest technique and its subsequent effect on some

phytochemicals, free scavenging activity and physicochemical properties. Radiation Physics and

Chemistry 102: 153 – 158.

14. Darfour, B., Asare, I.K., Ofosu, D.O., Achel, D.G., Achoribo, S.E. and Agbenyegah, S. (2014). The

Effect of Different Drying Methods on the Phytochemicals and Radical Scavenging Activity of Ceylon

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) Plant Parts. European Journal of Medicinal Plants. 4(11), pp.

1324-1335.

43

15. Darfour, B., Ofosu, D.O., Asare, I.K., Ofori, H., Agbemafle, E. and Atter, A. (2015). Antibacterial

activity of irradiated powdered Tetrapleura tetraptera fruit and the moisture sorption isotherm of the

whole fruit. European Journal of Medicinal Plants. 5(3), pp. 229-236.

16. Falade, Kolawole O., Ogundele, Opeolu M., Ogunshe, Adenike O., Fayemi, Olanrewaju E. and

Ocloo, Fidelis C. K. (2014). Physico-chemical, sensory and microbiological characteristics of plain

yoghurt from bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) and soybeans (Glycine max). Journal of Food

Science and Technology. 1 – 8.

17. Godwin, A., Daniel, G. A., Shadrack, D., Elom, S. A., Nana Afua, K. A-B., Godsway, B., Joseph, K.

G., Sackitey, N. O., Isaak, K. B. and Wisdom, A. (2014). Determination of elemental, phenolic,

antioxidant and flavonoid properties of Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus Stapf). International Food

Research Journal 21(5): 1971-1979.

18. Kondo, E. Asare, D.K., Larteh, I.T., Frimpong, J.O., Banson, K.E., Ayeh, E.O. and Heng, L.K. 2014.

Economic analysis of two cabbage cultivars produced at different levels of applied water. International

Journal of Development and Sustainability 3(10):2006 – 2013.

19. Kortei, N.K, Odamtten, G.T, Appiah, V, Obodai, M, Annan, T.A, Adu- Gyamfi, A, Akonor, P.T,

Annan, S.N.Y, Acquah, S.K, Armah, J.O. and Mills, S.W.O. (2014) Microbiological quality assessment

of gamma irradiated fresh and dried mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) and determination of D10 values of

Bacillus cereus in storage packs. European Journal of Biotechnology and Bioscience, 2(1):28-34.

20. Mahami, T. and Odonkor, S.T. (2014). Probiotic yoghourts sold in Accra: Potential public health

issues arising from microbiological quality and safety. Int. J. Curr. Microbiol. App. Sci 3(11) 261-272.

21. Nunoo J., Ofori E.S.K., Quartey E. K., Gasu E. K., Ewusie E. A., Odai B. T., Torgby-Tetteh W. and

Agbemavor W. S. K. (2014). Characterization of some physico-chemical properties of f5 breeding lines

of tomatoes. British J. of App. Sc. & Tech.; 4(27): 3967-3975.

22. Ocloo, F.C.K., Minnaar, A. and Emmambux, N.M. (2014). Effects of gamma irradiation and stearic

acid, alone and in combination, on functional, structural and molecular characteristics of high amylose

maize starch. Starch-Starke. 66: 625 – 635.

23. Ocloo, F.C.K., Okyere, A.A. and Asare, I.K. (2014) Physicochemical, functional and pasting

properties of flour produced from gamma irradiated tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) (2014). Radiation

Physics and Chemistry 103: 9 – 15.

24. Odai, B.T., Wilson, D.D., Bah, F.B.A., Torgby-Tetteh, W., Osae, M.Y. (2014). Irradiation as a

quarantine treatment against Bactrocera invadens in Mangifera indica L. in Ghana. African Journal of

Agricultural Research 9(21): 1618-1622.

25. Ofori, E. S. K. Yeboah, S. Nunoo, J. Quartey, E. K., Torgby-Tetteh, W., Gasu, E. K. and Ewusie, E.

A. (2014) Preliminary Studies of Insect Diversity and Abundance on Twelve Accessions of Tomato,

Solanum lycopersicon L. Grown in a Coastal Savannah Agro Ecological Zone. Journal of Agricultural

Science; 6 (8): 72-82.

26. Ojokoh, A. O., Fayemi, O. E., Ocloo, F. C. K. and Alakija, O (2014). Proximate composition,

antinutritional contents and physicochemical properties of breadfruit (Treculia africana) and cowpea

(Vigna unguiculata) flour blends fermented with Lactobacillus plantarum. African Journal of

Microbiology Research. 8 (12): 1352 – 1359.

44

27. Okyere, A.A. and Odamtten, G.T. (2014) Physicochemical, functional and sensory attributes of milk

prepared from irradiated tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) (2014), Journal of Radiation Research and

Applied Sciences.

28. Owureku-Asare, M., Adu-Gyamfi, A., Agyei-Amponsah, J., Agbemavor, W.K., Adom-Mensah, J.B.,

Acquah, S., Quayson, E. and Saalia, F. (2014). Effect of gamma irradiation treatment and storage on

physico-chemical, microbial and sensory quality of minimally processed pineapple (Ananas comosus)

British Journal of Applied Science and Technology, 4(19), 2753-2761.

29. Owureku-Asare, M., Agyei-Amponsah, J., Agbemavor, W.S.K., Adu Gyamfi, A., Larbi, D., A. Sarfo,

A., Asare, I. and Buah Kwofie, A. (2014). Quality evaluation of dried food ingredients from local

markets in Southern Ghana, African Journal of Science and Research (3)4:12-15.

30. M. Owureku-Asare, J. Agyei- Amponsah F.K. Saalia, L. Alfaro, L.A. Espinoza-Rodezno, S. Sathivel

(2014). Effect of Pretreatment on Physicochemical quality characteristics of dried tomato (Lycopersicon

esculentum). Afr J of Food science, 2014; 8(5), pp.253-259.

31. M. Owureku-Asare, F.K. Saalia, S. Sefa-Dedeh (2014). Effect of storage time and storage conditions

on physicochemical quality of sweet orange (Citrus sinensis L). J. Agric. Food. Tech., 4(3)12-17.

32. Quartey, E. K., Nunekpeku, W., Appiah, A. S., Owusu-Ansah, M. and Amoatey, H. M. (2014).

Agronomic evaluation of eight genotypes of pepper (Capsicum spp) in a coastal savannah zone of Ghana.

Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare. 4(24): 16-28.

33. Richmond Afoakwaha, Johnson N. Boampong, Alexander Egyir-Yawson, Ekene K. Nwaefuna,

Orish N. Verner, Kwame K. Asare (2014) High prevalence of PfCRT K76T mutation in Plasmodium

falciparum isolates in Ghana. Acta Tropica 136, 32–36.

34. Lees, R.S., Bart Knols, Romeo Bellini, Mark Q Benedict, Ambicadutt Bheecarry, Hervé Christophe

Bossin, Dave D Chadee, Jacques Charlwood, Roch K Dabiré, Luc Djogbenou, Alexander Egyir-

Yawson, René Gato, Louis Clément Gouagna, Mo'awia Mukhtar Hassan, Shakil Ahmed Khan, Lizette L

Koekemoer, Guy Lemperiere, Nicholas C Manoukis, Raimondas Mozuraitis, R Jason Pitts, Frederic

Simard, Jeremie R L Gilles (2014). Review: Improving our knowledge of male mosquito biology in

relation to genetic control programmes. Acta Tropica 132 Suppl: S2-11.

35. Sossah, F.L., V Oduro, HM Amoatey, AS Appiah, W Nunekpeku, FA Ossae, GK Owusu, S Amiteye

and JK Ahiakpa (2014). Biochemical Characterization of 18 Accessions of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea

batatas L. Lam.) Using Total Leaf and Tuberous Root Protein by SDS-PAGE. Journal of Natural

Sciences Research, vol 4 (11):48 – 55.

36. Torgby-Tetteh, W., Adu-Gyamfi, A., Appiah, V., Odai, T.B. (2014). Combined effect of irradiation

and frozen storage on survival of viable bacteria and inoculated E. coli in chicken. Journal of Food and

Nutrition Sciences, 2 (3): 53-57.

6.2. Peer-reviewed Journal Articles in Press

1.Nettey, S. N. A., Agodzo, S. K., Ofori, E. and Asare, D. K. Irrigated mango production in the coastal

savannah of Ghana's agro-ecological environment, for export. (Which Journal?).

45

2. Nunoo, J., Quartey, E. K., Amoatey, H. M. and Klu, G. Y. P. The effect of recurrent irradiation on the

improvement of a variant line of wild tomato (Solanum pimpinellifolium L.). Journal of Radiation

Research and Applied Sciences. (Accepted for publication)

3. Segbefiah, M. M., Amoatey, H. M., Quartey, E. K., Ahiakpa, J. K., Appiah A. S., Nunoo, J., Kusi-

Adjei, R. Detection of TYLCV in ten genotypes of tomato (Solanum spp.) using Serological and

Molecular techniques in a coastal savannah zone of Ghana. Journal of Biosciences. (Accepted for

publication).

4. Sossah, F.L., Appiah, A.S., Oduro, V., Amoatey, H.M., Owusu, G.K., Oppong, A., Lamptey, J.N.L.,

Carey, E.E. and Fuentes, S. Incidence of sweet potato (Ipomoea balatas (l.) lam.) viruses in the coastal

savannah agro-ecological zone of Ghana. Journal of Plant Pathology. (Accepted for publication)

6.3. Articles under Review

1. David Weetman, Sara N. Mitchell, Craig S. Wilding Daniel P. Birks, Henry D. Mawejje, John

Essandoah, Alexander Egyir-Yawson, Christopher S. Clarkson, Stuart G. Field, Daniel J. Rigden,

Martin J. Donnelly (In print). Purifying and positive selection acting upon the ACE1 insecticide-target

locus in the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae s.s. Submitted to Evolutionary Applications.

Oduro, V., E.T Blay, I. K. Asante, S. K. Offei and E. E Carey. Production constraints and farmers

preferences for sweetpotato in Ghana.

2. Oduro, V., E.T Blay, I. K. Asante, S. K. Offei and E. E Carey Characterization and evaluation of 130

sweetpotato accessions for sugars, dry matter and β-carotene.

3. Oduro, V., E.T Blay, I. K. Asante, S. K. Offei and E. E Carey Evaluating Genotype x Environment

interaction of sweetpotato for yield, dry matter, sugars and β-carotene.

4. Oduro, V., E.T Blay, I. K. Asante, S. K. Offei and E. E Carey. Genetic analysis of inheritance of

sugars, dry matter and β-carotene in sweetpotato.

5. Osae, M., Kwawukume, A., Wilson, M., Wilson, D., Koekemoer, L.L. Diversity, resistance and

vectoral capacity of endophilic Anophelines from three ecological zones of Ghana. Submitted to Malaria

World Journal.

6. Yeboah, S., Egyir-Yawson, A., Billah, M.K., Gomez, D.A.M.A., Osae, M. and Ewusie, E.A.

Development of Protein baits for controlling Bactrocera invadens Drew, Tsuruta and White (Diptera:

Tephritidae) in Mango orchards at Somanya, Eastern Ghana.

6.4. Edited Conference/Workshop Proceedings/Tech Doc Papers

1. Asare, D.K., Larteh, I.T., Frimpong, J.O., Yaro, M., Banson, K.E., Ayeh, E.O. and Heng, L.K. (2014).

Yield, water and nitrogen use by drip-irrigated cabbage grown under different levels of applied water. In

International Symposium on Managing Soils for Food S ecurity and Climate Change, Adaptation and

Mitigation (Eds. Heng, L.K., Sakadevan, K., Dercon, G. and Nguyen, M.L.), Food and Agriculture

Organization of the United Nations, pp. 297 – 301.

2. Danso K.E., Aboagye L., Banson K., Agbemavor W.S.K., Agyei-Amponsah J., Asumeng A.,

Owureku-Asare M., Fafa K. (2014). Mutation Induction in Dioscorea esculenta for improved nutritional

quality. IAEA Tech Doc Paper.

46

6.5. Conference/Workshop/Seminar Attendance

1. Dr. Godwin Amenorpe participated in the Open Forum for Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB)

meetings, organized by Food Research Institute of the Centre for Scientific and Industrial

Research (CSIR).

2. Mr. Emmanuel O. Ayeh participated in the following conferences/Training

programmes/Workshops

SERSC/BNARI Farmers Training Programme/Workshop on Organic Fertilizer with the

theme: “Awareness Creation and Dissemination.” July, 2014. Venue: BNARI Board Room.

GAEC/TTMC Business Forum with Private Sector/Partners with the theme: “Positioning

GAEC for Effective Commercialization Drive.” August, 2014. Venue: SNAS Conference

Room.

GAEC Two Day Training for Middle Level Management. September, 2014. Venue: SNAS

Conference Room.

3. Mr. Ebenezer A. Ewusie participated in the TEEAL/AGORA Train-the-Trainer Course, School of

Nuclear and Allied Science, Atomic Campus, Atomic Energy, Atomic. 24 – 26 September, 2014.

4. Mr. Samuel N.A. Nettey participated in the followingWorkshops/Training programmes

Scoring and Validation Workshop on Biofil Toilet, organized by IWMI on the 18th June

2014 at the Erata Hotel, East Legon

"Organic Agriculture". An IAEA training workshop at BNARI/GAEC for registered members

of GAEC farmers association in January, 2014.

"World Green Building Week" organized by Ghana Green Building Council (GHGBC) from

22nd - 27th September 2014.

Awareness Creation and Information Dissemination on the Development and Usages of

Organic Fertilizer - Workshop. Organized by SERSC on July, 2014 at BNARI's Board Room,

GAEC.

5. Afful Nusrat attended TEEAL/AGORA Train – the – Trainer Course; September 24 -26, 2014.

6. Abigail Tweneboa Asare attended the following courses:

TEEAL/AGORA Train – the – Trainer Course; Accra, Ghana, September 24 – 26, 2014.

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation/Biosciences Conference - Eastern and Central Africa

funding for ‘Agriculture Research Connections” Nairobi/Naivasha-Kenya; June 22-27, 2014.

AFRA Regional Training course on ‘Mutation Induction and in-vitro Techniques’, Pretoria,

South Africa, July 14-18, 2014.

7. Rosemary Kusi attended the following training courses:

AFRA Regional training course on ‘Mutation Induction and in-vitro Techniques’, Pretoria,

South Africa, July14 - 18, 2014.

TEEAL/AGORA Train – the – Trainer Course; Accra, Ghana, September 24 – 26, 2014.

8. Rhoda Gyinae attended

TEEAL/AGORA Train – the – Trainer Course; Accra, Ghana, September 24 – 26, 2014.

9. A. Adu-Gyamfi

Presentation on “Contribution of Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute

towards National Development” to Plan Ghana (an international NGO) on 4th August 2014 at

47

the office premises of Plan Ghana, Accra, as part of the outreach programme of the

Technology Transfer and Marketing Centre.

Presentation on “Radiation Sterilisation of Medical Items” to Christian Health Association of

Ghana on 25th September 2014 at the Forest Hotel, Dodowa as part of the outreach

programme of the Technology Transfer and Marketing Centre.

10. Bernard Darfour

The Essential Electronic Agricultural Library (TEEAL) and Access to Global Online

Research in Agriculture (AGORA) Training-of-Trainer Workshop Accra, Ghana – 24th to

26th September, 2014.

11. Daniel Osei Ofosu

Interaction between Scientists and Media Personnel on Issues of Biotechnology,

Biosafety and Genetically Modified Organisms, March 7, 2014. Ghana Atomic Energy

Commission.

Partners and Stakeholders’ Meeting on Biosafety Capacity Development in Africa,

March 17-18, 2014, Lilongwe, Malawi.

Technical Support for Application Review and Decision Making on Confined Trials of

RRF and RRF x BGII Cotton in Ghana, April 21 – 24, 2014. Mensvic Hotel, Accra.

Harmonization of biosafety mandates of regulatory agencies identified in Act 831

(Drafting of MoU), May 23, 27, 2014. BNARI Conference room.

Annual biotechnology/Biosafety Outreach of the US Embassy in Accra. May 28 - June 6,

2014, Western Region/Ashanti Region/Brong-Ahafo Region.

Two-day strategic PBS Africa team planning meeting. June 19-20, 2014 Salima, Malawi

Final review of the new Biosafety Legislative Instrument. July 17-20, 2014, Dodowa,

Ghana.

Interaction between Scientists, Regulators and Media Personnel on Issues of Agric

journalism, biosafety and genetically modified organisms in Northern Ghana. August 13-

15, 2014. Kumasi, Ghana.

Strategic Planning Meeting, September 2-5, 2014, Virginia, United States of America.

13th International Symposium on Biosafety of Genetically Modified Organisms 2014

(ISBGMO), 9 – 13 November 2014, Cape Town, South Africa

12. Adwoa Safo

Ghana Network of Food Testing Laboratories Accreditation Forum on ISO 17025 on the

23rd of June, 2014 at GAEC, Accra - Ghana

Borlaug regional workshop, August 4-7, 2014, Accra Ghana

13. E. K. Gasu

Workshop on Knowledge Management and Learning (March, 2014), Tamale by USAID,

IFDC and IOWA State University

Manya Krobo Odumasi Mango Farmers’ Association General Meeting (5th June, 2014),

Kpong

TEEAL and AGORA Programs Training-of-Trainer Workshop, 24-28 September, 2014,

GAEC, Accra.

48

14. Fidelis Ocloo

Ocloo, F.C. K., Minnaar, Ray, S. S. and Emmambux, N. M. (2014). Micro- and nano-

structural characterisation of isolated amylose-lipid complexes from gamma irradiated

high amylose maize starch (Hylon VII). Microscopy Society of Southern Africa (MSSA)

Conference. Protea Hotel Conference room. Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa.

December 2 – 5.

Ocloo, Fidelis C. K., Minnaar, Amanda and Emmambux, Naushad M. (2014). Pasting

behavior of high amylose maize starch (Hylon VII) with added stearic acid. An oral

presentation at the 1st new voices in cereal science and technology symposium. The Grain

Building Conference Room. Pretoria, South Africa. 3 September 2014.

Training on Manual Liquid Handling (MLH) organized by Lasec SA. Department of

Food Science. University of Pretoria, South Africa. 21 February, 2014.

Microscopy Society of Southern Africa (MSSA) Conference. Protea Hotel Conference

room. Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa. 2 – 5 December 2014.

Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) fourth annual young scientists’ conference

on Agriculture and Food Security. Diep in die Berg Conference Centre. Pretoria, South

Africa. 14 – 16 October 2014.

1st New voices in cereal science and technology (CST-SA) symposium. The grain

building conference room. Pretoria, South Africa. 3 September 2014.

15. Gabriel K. Frimpong

The Essential Electronic Agricultural Library (TEEAL) and Access to Global Online

Research in Agriculture (AGORA) Training-of-Trainer Workshop Accra, Ghana – 24th

to 26th September, 2014.

16. Isaac Asare

The Essential Electronic Agricultural Library (TEEAL) and Access to Global Online

Research in Agriculture (AGORA) Training-of-Trainer Workshop Accra, Ghana – 24th

to 26th September, 2014.

17. Joyce Agyei-Amponsah

Power point presentation on “Mutation induction, Utilization and Conservation of

Dioscorea esculenta (lour) burk: A threatened yam species: Shelf-life studies”. August,

2014.

18. Mavis Owureku-Asare

May 4‐10, 2014. African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD)

Women’s Leadership and Management Course in Kampala, Uganda.

Judge, Student Case competition, International Food and Agribusiness Management

Association (IFAMA) 24th Annual World Symposium Cape Town, South Africa, June

15th, June, 2014.

June 15-19th 2014. International Food and Agribusiness Management Association

(IFAMA) 24th Annual World Symposium Cape Town, South Africa.

June 23rd-29th June, 2014. African Doctoral Academy, winter School course on

“Introduction to SPSS”, at Stellenbosch University, Cape Town.

June 30th to 4th July, 2014. African Doctoral Academy, Winter School course on

ATLAS. Ti. ”, at Stellenbosch University, Cape Town.

August 4th -7th, 2014. United States Department for Agriculture (USDA) Women feed

the future program in Accra, Ghana.

49

Power point presentation on “Ghana Atomic Energy Commission Intellectual Property

Policy” to the Intellectual Property Management Committee (IPMC) on 4th September,

2014.

Oral presentation on “Consumer Knowledge, Perceptions, Consumption Patterns and

Quality Assessment of “Sobolo” (Roselle Sabdariffa drink) in Southern Ghana.”

International Food and Agribusiness Management Association (IFAMA) 24th Annual

World Symposium Cape Town, South Africa, June 16-17, 2014.

Oral presentation on “Effect of pretreatment on physicochemical quality characteristics of

dried tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum)”. International Food and Agribusiness

Management Association (IFAMA) 24th Annual World Symposium Cape Town, South

Africa, June 16-17, 2014.

Power point presentation on “Effect of pretreatment on physicochemical quality

characteristics of dried tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum). BNARI board room July 17th

2014.

Power point presentation on “Introduction to intellectual property”. BNARI board room

7th August, 2014

J. Agyei-Amponsah, M. Owureku-Asare, W.S.K Agbemavor, D. Ofori-Appiah, E.A

Ayeh, J. Apatey, K.E Danso. Mutation induction, utilization and conservation of

Dioscorea esculenta (lour) burk: A threatened yam species: Shelf-life studies. 2014

IFAMA-Corporate Council on Africa Agribusiness and World food forum, Cape Town.

June 15-19th 2014. (poster presentation)

M. Owureku-Asare. Production, Marketing and Processing of Tomato in Ghana.

IFAMA-Corporate Council on Africa Agribusiness and World food forum, Cape Town.

June 15-19th 2014. (poster presentation)

19. Selorm Agbemavor

The Essential Electronic Agricultural Library (TEEAL) and Access to Global Online

Research in Agriculture (AGORA) Training-of-Trainer Workshop Accra, Ghana – 24th

to 26th September, 2014.

Data Management and Analyses organized by Institute of Statistical, Social &

Economic Research (ISSER), University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana - 7th to 18th

July, 2014.

20. Leticia Amoakoah

USDA Borlaug women’s feed the Future Program: Linking Agriculture Research to

Agribusiness, Hub Accra August 4th -8th, 2014

USDA/ FAS 2014 Borlaug Fellow: Purdue University, West Lafayette Indiana U.S.A.

22rd September -12th Dec, 2014

2014 World Food Prize IOWA U.S.A. 14th- 18th October, 2014

21. Dr. Godwin Amenorpe

Open Forum for Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) meetings, organized by Food

Research Institute of the Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

22. Mr. E.O. Ayeh

SERSC/BNARI Farmers Training Programme/Workshop on Organic Fertilizer with the

theme: “Awareness Creation and Dissemination.” July, 2014. BNARI Board Room.

GAEC/TTMC Business Forum with Private Sector/Partners with the theme: “Positioning

GAEC for Effective Commercialization Drive.” August, 2014. Venue: SNAS Conference

Room.

50

GAEC Two Day Training for Middle Level Management. September, 2014. SNAS

Conference Room.

23. Mr. E.A. Ewusie

TEEAL/AGORA Train-the-Trainer Course, School of Nuclear and Allied Science,

Atomic Campus, Atomic Energy, Atomic. 24 – 26 September, 2014.

24. Mr. S.N.A. Nettey

Scoring and Validation Workshop on Biofil Toilet, organized by IWMI on the 18th June

2014 at the Erata Hotel, East Legon

"Organic Agriculture". An IAEA training workshop at BNARI/GAEC for registered

members of GAEC farmers association in January, 2014.

"World Green Building Week" organized by Ghana Green Building Council (GHGBC)

from 22nd - 27th September 2014.

Awareness Creation and Information Dissemination on the Development and Usages of

Organic Fertilizer - Workshop. Organized by SERSC on July, 2014 at BNARI's Board

Room, GAEC.

8.0. Internally Generated Fund

9.0. Future projections

1. Expand the veterinary clinic

2. Expand the poultry unit

3. Expand the piggery unit

4. Develop proposals for funds to support research and commercialise the IGF

5. Explore anther culture as a tool for cassava improvement

6. Develop strategies to effectively lobby for government’s assistance in developing regulations and

guidelines that will create market for radiation sterilisation of medical items.

7. Continue with efforts to use appropriate marketing strategies to sensitize and educate key

stakeholders on the potential of the upgraded irradiator in the processing of agricultural, medical

and other industrial products in the country.

8. Commence commercial production of fresh fruit juice for sale to the public.

9. Set up of a sterility testing laboratory to improve radiation sterilization of medical items

10. Optimize a functional protocol for commercial production of cocoyam in vitro

11. Production of artificial hybrids of plantain through protoplast fusion

12. Establishment of a plant genetic transformation laboratory

13. Establishment of a GM testing laboratory

14. Explore the possibility of having irrigation dam built for the institute

10.0. General Constraints

1. Lack of adequate funds for research

2. Unreliable rainfall pattern

3. Lack of irrigation facility hampering field work

4. Power outages and fluctuations

5. Lack of office space for all categories of staff in the institute

6. Lack of reliable water supply for lab work and general use

7. Lack of office space

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8. Inadequate furniture

9. Inadequate supply of chemicals and reagents

10. Inadequate marketing support for commercializing the activities of the IGF