- From
-
Published on
07.04.25
More than 40 scientists from the IITA–CGIAR gathered in Accra, Ghana, for the annual retreat of the West Africa and Sahel Regional Hubs (WASH) recently. From 18 to 21 March, the four-day event served as a crucial platform to assess past achievements, refine strategies, and strengthen efforts toward advancing nutrition, food security, breeding, and agricultural innovations across the region.
Speaking during the retreat, Director IITA Sahel Hub, Dr Abdoulaye Tahirou said, “The 2025 WASH annual retreat aimed to discuss IITA’s new strategies, strengthening collaboration among scientists and exploring county-specific programs”.
Opening the retreat on the first day, IITA Country Representative for Ghana – host country for the retreat – Dr Richard Asare during his welcome remarks said IITA station in Tamale will ensure the participants have a memorable experience. Adding that the Tamale station is being designed to serve as a technological park and a unit hub. He delivered a presentation on the Research for Development (R4D) and Partnership for Development (P4D) in Ghana with a focus on the BBEST, Cocoasoils, AICCRA, PROSSIVA, Akilimo, SSPiNG and EU Food projects. During the retreat, each country presented its programs and innovations, and discussions were held on scaling innovations, policy innovations, food security, climate-smart agriculture, and breeding programs. A strategic document was developed for the institute’s discussion to enable a smooth engagement with government and policymakers. TAAT showcased its E-catalog and invited scientists to use it in their work.