Bolgatanga: The Forum for Natural Regeneration (FONAR), an agricultural-focused Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), has advocated strong regulatory systems for agrochemical use in Ghana. Mr. Sumaila Seidu Saaka, Executive Director of the NGO, made the call when he addressed stakeholders at an event to mark World Bee Day in Bolgatanga on the theme: 'Bee inspired by nature to nourish us all.'

According to Ghana News Agency, World Bee Day is observed annually on May 20, and as part of activities to mark the day, FONAR organized the event dubbed 'Time with the media: Screening of 'The Pollinators' documentary film.' The event, funded by Awaken Trees Foundation of Austria, attracted selected journalists and officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry Commission (FC), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Mr. Saaka emphasized the need for strong regulatory systems for agrochemical use, stating, 'We need to have a very strong regulatory system in terms of how we use agrochemicals in Ghana.' He urged central and local governments, especially District Assemblies, to enhance the capabilities of regulatory institutions like the EPA and the crop protection and regulatory services department of the Ministry of Agriculture. This would ensure the monitoring and regulation of pesticide use to protect pollinators, including bees, from pollution.

Highlighting the significance of bees as major pollinators, Mr. Saaka noted that many agricultural products, such as tomatoes, pepper, and groundnuts, rely on bee pollination. He stressed the importance of appreciating pollinators, aligning with the organization's mission of promoting tree conservation through farmer-managed natural regeneration.

Mr. Saaka called on journalists to educate farmers about the dual benefits of bees, both as pollinators and honey providers. He noted that bees and other insects pollinate over 75 percent of flowering plants and are essential for the pollination of about 1,500 crops worldwide, contributing 15 to 30 percent of global food production. The economic value of pollination services, largely provided by bees, is estimated at between USD235 and 577 billion annually.

Mr. Michael Nanor, a Forest Ranger at the Forest Services Division of the FC, emphasized the importance of beekeeping, encouraging citizens to view it as crucial for promoting food security. He advocated for the protection of bees, the minimization of harmful chemical use, and the planting of trees to support bee populations.

Mr. Godfred Yao Agbenyeke, an Assistant Programme Officer at the EPA, echoed the call for bee protection to enhance crop production and food security.