Mr Kadiri Rashad - Programs Manager of CropLife Ghana

CropLife Ghana (CLG), a non-profit making organization which represents the crop protection industry in Ghana has urged the general public to report persons dealing in counterfeit pesticides to the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Immigration Service for prosecution.

It has also appealed to relevant bodies like the environment protection agency and the state security particularly the customs division who monitor the various borderlands to combat the menace of counterfeiting in the country.

The Program Manager of CropLife Ghana, Mr. Kadriri Rashad noted the phenomenon is a growing problem for all industries especially the plant science industry.

“Counterfeiting of plant science products brings a range of negative effects for the industry, farmers and the environment. The proliferation of counterfeits and illegal pesticides and fertilizers in Ghanaian Agriculture markets has remained a major challenge affecting farmers, CopLife Ghana member companies, food security and the environment at large” he added.  

In view of this, he assured his outfit will continue to raise awareness of farmers and the general public on the effects of buying counterfeit and illegal pesticides and fertilizers from unlicensed and unapproved input dealers and companies as this year’s crop season draws closer.

He further implored users of these agro-products particularly farmers to seek proper education of the products before, during and after it’s usage to help reduce its negative effect and health implications on the society.

Mr. Kadriri Rashad in an interaction with stakeholders in the agricultural value-chain indicated CropLife Ghana’s awareness raising and stewardship activities promote the safe, responsible and sustainable use of pesticides and fertilizers in Ghana and also encourage management practices that safeguard harvests, human health, and the environment. 

He therefore reiterated the need for the citizenry to report cases of counterfeiting or persons involved in the unlawful act to the law enforcing agencies for prosecution.

Notwithstanding this, Mr. Rashad, stated CropLife Ghana and its member companies in the interest country will always ensure that farmers get the best produce and inputs in the agricultural sector to serve the general public.

“Together. Let’s Say NO to counterfeits and illegal pesticides and report suspicious persons to the relevant authorities. Farmers and the general public can contact CropLife Ghana secretariat via Tel: 0501527327 to report and prosecute.”