The Netherlands Ambassador, Jeroen Verheul, has called for a renewed focus on the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources as a cornerstone for ensuring food security and resilience in Ghana.
Speaking at the event “Flavours of Genetic Diversity: A Culinary Journey” in Accra last Thursday, he stressed the profound connections between biodiversity, sustainable agriculture, and shared responsibility.

“Food connects every one of us. We all must eat, and we each carry a blend of culinary traditions that nourish our bodies, hearts, minds, and relationships,” Mr Verheul said.
The program, hosted by the Embassy of the Netherlands in collaboration with the Ghana Food Movement and supported by the International Treaty of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA), spotlighted the essential role of seeds in food systems.

Highlighting the intrinsic value of plant genetic resources, Mr Verheul noted, “These natural genetic resources provide the flavours, colours, and nutrients that we rely on for food.
"Beyond the pleasure of taste, they make our crops resilient to pests and diseases, to drought and floods, to heat and cold.”

The Ambassador underscored the global interdependence of food systems, stating the need for collaboration.

“No country or seed system is fully self-reliant. Take tomatoes, for instance. They are the stars of Ghana’s cuisine…But did you know that, by weight, tomato seeds are more expensive than gold? And that tomatoes are actually native to South America?”

He expressed concern over challenges such as climate change, unsustainable food production, and the erosion of biodiversity, calling for collective action to build resilient food systems.
“The strength in our food systems lies in our shared connections. By working together, we can build a more resilient and sustainable future,” he said.

Mr Verheul praised the Ghana Food Movement for its efforts to promote local food, support farmers, and champion sustainable practices.

“This event is an opportunity to connect our work more effectively. Together, we can take action to ensure a resilient food system for generations to come,” he stated.
Encouraging deeper collaboration, Mr Verheul reminded attendees of the power of unity.

“Reaching out is what brings us together. Let’s do this together—because on our own, we will not succeed. And together is simply more fun.”
The event showcased the intersection of culinary tradition, biodiversity, and innovation, leaving attendees inspired to contribute toward sustainable food systems in Ghana and beyond.
Latest Stories
-
Rising phenomenon of academic title ‘fraud’; vice chancellors back GTEC to purge system of all ‘unearned’ titles in PhD
34 minutes -
Kudus keen on Tottenham move despite first bid rejected
37 minutes -
How our lack of enlightenment costs us more than corruption
53 minutes -
Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko renew rivalry in President’s Cup clash
1 hour -
WAFCON 2024: Morocco and Zambia draw opening match
1 hour -
Texas flood victims: Girl ‘having time of her life’ and ‘heart and soul’ of camp
2 hours -
Archaeologists unveil 3,500-year-old city in Peru
2 hours -
British Columbia College advocates AI at its 9th graduation ceremony
2 hours -
Two administrations, same pattern of betrayal: LI 2462 and the legacy of Ghana’s forests
2 hours -
“Making Ghana the True Black Star of the World” book launched in Bibiani
2 hours -
Cutoff points a barrier to tertiary education for poorer students – UENR Official
3 hours -
Armed robbers shoot 4 passengers on Winneba Highway, one arrested
3 hours -
Two rescued after early morning trailer crash in Asante Akim Central
3 hours -
Hitz Gallery adds spark as Dr Pounds brings new exciting segments to Hitz FM evening slot
4 hours -
Armed robber jailed 19 years for attacking pregnant woman in Ho
5 hours