CSIR-STEPRI Urges National Investment in Transportation and Infrastructure to Combat Malnutrition and Food Waste

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s Science and Technology Policy Research Institute (CSIR-STEPRI) has called for an urgent national policy to boost investment across Ghana’s food value chain. Highlighting the critical link between infrastructure and public health, the Council emphasized that enhancing transport, storage, and processing systems is essential to making nutritious foods both accessible and affordable for all Ghanaians. This move comes as the nation grapples with the dual challenges of rising obesity and persistent malnutrition, particularly within low-income communities.

A recent report by CSIR-STEPRI underscores the detrimental impact of inadequate handling and logistics on food security. According to the study, over 40 percent of certain agricultural produce is lost or spoiled before reaching consumers due to poor transportation and insufficient storage facilities. This significant post-harvest loss not only drives up the prices of healthy food options but also restricts their availability in local markets. By modernizing road networks and improving distribution channels, the Council argues that the government can significantly reduce waste and ensure that fresh, nutrient-dense produce reaches those who need it most.

To address these systemic issues, CSIR-STEPRI is advocating for a coordinated government effort to prioritize infrastructure projects that support the agricultural sector. Beyond infrastructure, the report calls for a holistic approach to food environment policies that integrate dietary quality into national development plans. As Ghana moves forward under the administration of President John Mahama, these recommendations provide a roadmap for improving the country's nutritional outcomes and economic resilience by securing the food supply chain from farm to fork.