This he said, would help develop an adaptation strategy to minimize vulnerabilities and enhance resilience.

“We must invest in research to understand the full extent of the problem and inform effective policy interventions, allocated research fund is insufficient, despite the high demand for data-driven policymaking in addressing such critical issues,” he said.

He said this at a press briefing on this year’s Evidence to Action Conference and Exhibition, slated for July 24, in Accra.

The event is on the theme”Resilience and climate change adaptation.”

He expressed concerns over policy inconsistencies that hindered sustainable solutions, emphasising the importance of evidence-based policymaking.

Prof.Quartey expressed worry about the crucial impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s agricultural sector and called for urgent need to address the environmental and health hazards posed by illegal mining activities.

“If we do not take care, we may find ourselves needing to import food and water due to the contamination caused by chemicals used in illegal mining,” he said.

He underscored the growing concerns over reduced agricultural productivity and the risks posed to public health.

Prof.Quartey suggested that embracing smart agricultural practices could mitigate the adverse effects of illegal mining on farming communities, stressing the role of technological innovation in promoting sustainable agriculture amidst environmental challenges.

Prof.Quarteycalled for concerted effort from the government, researchers, and civil society to safeguard Ghana’s agricultural future against the threats posed by illegal mining.

Dr. Betty Annan, AGRA’s Ghana Country Director, highlighted her outfit’s role in fostering sustainable agricultural practices across Africa during a recent conference.

She emphasised the organisation’s collaborative approach with governments, private sectors, and communities to empower smallholder farmers.

“We partner with the private sector, governments, and communities to ensure smallholder farmers receive essential technologies,” Dr Annan stated.

Dr Annan expressed her passion for working directly with smallholder farmers, contrasting it with her previous experience in the mining sector.

She said AGRA planned to continue its impactful work across the continent, focusing on women, youth, and research collaborations with universities and government institutions.

Dr David Ameyaw, Chief Executive Officer of the International Centre for Evaluation and Development (ICED), saidthere was the need for data-driven policies to mitigate these challenges, underscoring the conference’s role in fostering collaboration towards solutions.

He underscored the critical importance of global cooperation in tackling climate change, urging stakeholders to heed to scientific recommendations for sustainable development.