Improving Food Security and Income for Smallholder Farmers -Prof Kwame Afreh

Improving food security and income for smallholder farmers through

improved post harvest technology - Professor Kwame Afreh- Nuamah Ghana

BACKROUND.

Research efforts at reducing post harvest losses of grain have generated a number of technologies; a

recent technology involves the use of hermetic triple layer bags for storage of cowpea. This

technology is currently being disseminated by Purdue University and is considered successful in

control of the cowpea storage insect pest. The adaptation of this technology for storage of other

important cereal crops as maize, paddy rice and sorghum which are also affected by same

categories of storage pest would require some adaptable research activities. In addition, the

modification of the plastic materials which were used for the Purdue technology to biodegradable

materials is considered laudable, due to its environmental friendliness and the need to extend the

technology to countries where ordinary plastics are outlawed.

On 4th of March 2011, a Memorandum of understanding was signed between the Forum of

Agricultural Research in Africa, Ghana (FARA), University of Ghana, Legon and Concern

Universal for Project REF: FARA-NSF5-SSACP HERMETIC BAGS MOU- February 2011. Under

this MOU, FARA provided funding to the University of Ghana for two MPhil students to conduct

research on the effectiveness of the hermetic storage technology whilst Concern Universal, a U K

registered NGO based in Ghana facilitated the identification and selection of site and farmer

participants in field research.

Two MPhil students-Jacob Anakware Paarechuga an Entomology student and Francisca Aba Ansah

a Postharvest student were identified for the research. Jacob explored the

"Effectiveness of the three layer-hermetic bag in controlling the larger grain borer,

prostesphanus trancatus (horn) and sitophilus zeamais (Mot) on stored maize" (See Attachment Q);

whilst Francisca studied the "Environmental conditions and the use of Hermetic Triple Layer bags

for Maize Storage" (See Appendix B)

The results from these studies showed the potential of the biodegradable hermetic bags in protecting

maize in storage. The high yielding maize varieties were found to be most susceptible and recorded

the highest weight loss. Hermetic bags were able to preserve seeds with better quality and viabilty

much longer than chemical treatment, conventional jute and polypropylene bags ( see attached

documents). It was recommended that the triple-layer hermetic bag should be promoted so maize

farmers could use it to store their grains.

Following this a consortium was formed, involving Concern Universal, University of Ghana,Legon,

Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana, Abrono Organic Farming Project, A Julius Kuhn-Instiut,

Federal Research Centre, Germany on Cultivated Plants, Bio-Plastic Ghana Limited (Industry), and

Bvumbwe Agricultural Station, Malawi. A concept note based on the heading was submitted to

PAEPARD which was reviewed to be of very good quality with a high potential to yield efficient

partnership that will promote innovation. Consequently, the concept note was accepted for further

consideration. Following that a partnership inception workshop was organised for three consortia

selected by FARA based on the earlier call for proposal. This meeting was held in Nairobi, Kenya

from 6th -10th June, 2011. After this, a write-shop was organised at Entebbe, Uganda to finalise the

development of the full proposal (See Appendix A). Subsequently, our proposal was submitted to

the AU call for proposals in April 2012. Since then nothing has been heard about the proposal and

the way forward.

APPENDIX A

AFRICAN UNION UNION AFRICAINE

UNIÃO AFRICANA

Annex A: Grant Application Form

African Union Research Grants

Open Call for Proposals - 2012

Reference: [HRST/ST/AURG/CALL2/2012]

Deadline for submission of proposals: 20/04/2012: 1700 Hours Addis Ababa

Dossier No

(for official use only)

10th European Development Fund

The African Component of the ACP Research Programme for Sustainable DevelopmentRef: EuropeAid/132-331/M/ACT/ACP

November 2010 (Update March 2011) Page 1 of 66

Page 1 of 66document.docx

Title of the action:Management of Pre- and Post- Harvest Insect Pests of Maize in Ghana and Malawi

[Number and title of lot] Lot 1-Post-harvest and Agriculture

Location(s) of the action: Ghana and Malawi

Name of the applicantInstitute of Agricultural Research, College of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon

Nationality of the applicant1Ghanaian

Dossier No

(for official use only)

EuropeAid ID2

Ongoing contract/Legal Entity File Lumber (if available)3

Legal status4 Governmental body – Public University Insitution

Partner(s)5-1

Name: Concern Universal

Nationality: British

Date of establishment: 1976

Legal status: Non profit making NGO: Company Limited By Guarantee, and Registered Charity.

Partner 2

Name: Bvumbwe Agricultural Research Station

Nationality: Malawi

Date of establishment: 1940s

Legal status: Government Research Station

Partner 3

Name: Julius Kühn-Instiut, Federal Research Centre on Cultivated Plants

EuropeAid ID: 999494015 (PIC)

Nationality: German

Date of establishment: 1 January 2008

Legal status: Non-profit governmental research institute

1 For organisations, the statutes must make it possible to ascertain that the organisation was set up by an act governed by the national law of the country concerned. In this respect, any legal entity whose statutes have been established in another country cannot be considered an eligible local organisation. In this respect, see also footnotes of the Guidelines of the call.

2 To be inserted if the organisation is registered in PADOR. This number is allocated to an organisation which registers its data in PADOR. For more information and to register, please visit http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/onlineservices/pador.

3 If an applicant has already signed a contract with the European Commission and/or has been informed of the Legal Entity File number. If neither of this apply, indicate "N/A".

4 E.g. non profit making, governmental body, international organisation.5 Add as many rows as partners.

http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/onlineservices/pador

Applicant's contact details for the purpose of this action

Postal address:Institute of Agricultural Research, College of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences, University of Ghana, P. O. Box LG. 68, Accra, Ghana.

Telephone number: (fixed and mobile) Country code + city code + number

+233- 3202-50080 - Fixed

+233-244873568 - Mobile

Fax number: Country code + city code + number

Contact person for this action: Professor Kwame Afreh-Nuamah

Contact person's email: [email protected]

Address:Institute of Agricultural Research, College of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences, University of Ghana, P. O. Box LG. 68, Accra, Ghana.

Website of the Organisation: http://www.ug.edu.gh/cacs/

Any change in the addresses, phone numbers, fax numbers and in particular e-mail, must be notified in writing to the Contracting Authority. The Contracting Authority will not be held responsible in case it cannot contact an applicant.

http://www.ug.edu.gh/cacs/

TABLE OF CONTENT

PART A. CONCEPT NOTE......................................................................................................................... 5

1 Instructions for the drafting of the concept note..................................Error! Bookmark not defined.1.1. Summary of the action.................................................................................................................. 51.2. Relevance of the action (max 3 pages)........................................................................................61.3. Description of the action (max 1 page).........................................................................................9

2 Checklist for concept note...............................................................................................................10

3 Declaration by the applicant for concept note...............................................................................12

4 Assessment grid for concept note..................................................................................................13

PART B. FULL APPLICATION FORM.....................................................................................................14

1 General information.......................................................................................................................... 14

2 The action.......................................................................................................................................... 152.1. Budget of the action, amount requested from the Contracting Authority and other expected sources

of funding.................................................................................................................................... 152.2. Description of the Action.................................................................................................................2.3. Applicant's experience of similar actions....................................................................................33

3 The applicant..................................................................................................................................... 363.1. Identity........................................................................................................................................ 363.2. Profile......................................................................................................................................... 373.3. Capacity to manage and implement actions...............................................................................393.4. List of the management board/committee of your organisation.................................................42

4 Partners of the applicant participating in the action......................................................................444.1. Description of the partners..........................................................................................................444.2. Partnership statement................................................................................................................49

5 Associates of the applicant participating in the action.................................................................50

6 Checklist for the full application form.............................................................................................54

7 Declaration by the applicant............................................................................................................57

8 Assessment grid of the full application form.................................................................................58

PART A. CONCEPT NOTE

SUMMARY OF THE ACTION

Please complete the table below which should not exceed 1 page.

Title of the action: Management of Pre- and Post- Harvest Insect Pests of Maize in Ghana and Malawi

Lot:

- Please tick the box corresponding to the specific lot for which you are applying:

√ Lot 1 - Post-harvest and Agriculture

Lot 2 - Renewable and Sustainable Energy

Lot 3 - Water and Sanitation

Location(s) of the action: - specify country(ies), region(s) that will benefit from the action

Ghana and Malawi

Total duration of the action (months):

36 months

Amount of requested EU contribution

Objectives of the action

The overall objective of this project is to improve household food security in Ghana and Malawi.

The specific objectives are to:Develop crop management systems to enhance maize production and reduce maize grain losses in the field before storageDevelop sustainable and environmentally friendly storage technologyDevelop Innovative strategy to promote and disseminate sustainable and environmentally friendly storage technologies to farmers

Target group(s)6 –Fifteen thousand small-holder maize farmers (10,000 in Ghana and 5,000 in Malawi)

Final beneficiaries7Small-holder maize farmers in Ghana and Malawi, 3 farmer-based organisations, 1 hermetic bag manufacturer, Agricultural Extension Agents, Institutional maize buyers, NGOs Consumers and Researchers,

Estimated results

1. Sustainable and environmentally friendly crop management systems put in place.2. Sustainable and environmentally friendly storage technologies put in place

3. Innovative ways of promoting and disseminating technologies put in place

Main activities 1. Development of sustainable and environmentally friendly crop management system to reduce maize grain losses in the field

2.Development of sustainable and environmentally friendly storage technologies3. Development of Innovative strategies to promote and disseminate sustainable and environmentally friendly storage

6 “Target groups” are the groups/entities who will be directly positively affected by the action at the action purpose level.

7 “Final beneficiaries” are those who will benefit from the action in the long term at the level of the society or sector at large.



technologies to farmers

RELEVANCE OF THE ACTION (MAX 3 PAGES)

1.2.1 Relevance to the objectives/sectors/themes/specific priorities of the call for proposals.The project being proposed seeks to improve household food security in Ghana and Malawi. This will be achieved through research to develop sustainable and environmentally friendly crop management systems and post-harvest technologies to reduce pre- and post-harvest losses of maize due to insect pests and diseases. This proposal is therefore consistent with the 1st priority area: “Post-harvest and Agriculture,” of this 2nd call of the African Union Research Grants. It is also consistent with the African Union (AU) Millennium Declaration (AU, 2006) in tackling challenges that currently hinder African countries from attaining the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) (http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/), in particular, MDG 1 (Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger), and MDG 8 (Develop a global partnership for development). The proposed project contributes to the eradication of poverty and hunger by providing important complementary management tools for maize production through early detection of build-up of on-farm and post-harvest pests and diseases and to aid timely implementation of control to avert outbreaks (MDG 6), thus, minimizing loss of food and income generation (MDG 1). Scientific collaboration among all partners will be a significant contribution to technology transfer to the achievement of MDG 8.

This project which will be implemented through collaborative research between scientific institutions in Ghana and Malawi will also promote intra-regional scientific collaboration and co-operation among scientists in west and southern Africa for sustainable development of the African continent. The proposal is thus consistent with the overall objective of improving science and technology research to contribute to Africa’s sustainable development through: “innovatively and sustainably building Africa’s research capacities through direct funding of the AU Science and Technology Policy, particularly the implementation of the Consolidated Plan of Action (CPA) and its lighthouse projects”. This project satisfies the requirement of local ownership since the main applicant of the action is a member of African Union. It also satisfies the other requirements such as regional collaboration. This project which aims at improving food security by increasing maize grain output among small-holder maize farmers in Ghana and Malawi will address the issue of food security and food safety which are among the expected results mentioned in the priority area “Post-harvest and Agriculture” of this call. This action also addresses the issue of adapting a much large effects of climate change to African agriculture through the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly crop management systems and storage technologies to reduce insect pests and safeguard yields of maize.

1.2.2. Relevance to the particular needs and constraints of the target country/countries, region(s) and/or relevant sectors (including synergy with other EU initiatives and avoidance of duplication).The worsening global food situation over the past couple of years is a matter of growing concern for most governments particularly, in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) where a significant proportion of the populations still live below the poverty line. In addition to soaring food prices, the factors contributing to the challenging food situation for lower-income SSA countries, include persistently low productivity, difficulty in adapting to climate change, financial difficulties and inaccessible credit facilities, and increased dependency on food aid. Yet, there is an additional factor that exacerbates food insecurity: post-harvest losses (PHL) (World Bank, 2011). High PHL reduce real income for all consumers, divert essential income out of farmers’ pockets and undermine overall food availability. Insect pest infestation accounts for the bulk, about 20% to 50%, of all food crop losses, much of maize grain losses occur during pre-harvesting, harvesting, shelling, drying and storage (Komen et al., 2011; Agoda et al., 2011). Post-harvest losses may be caused by several factors including harvesting methods, handling procedures, drying techniques and moisture levels; types of storage; filth; attack by birds and rodents; insect damage; and infestation by food-borne pathogens. Grain losses do not only lead to weight loss but also reduces food quality as a result of contamination with mould, frass, dead insect bodies and fragments. Furthermore, studies in West Africa suggest that maize free of insect damage had no contamination with aflatoxin (a metabolic by-product of infection by the mould Aspergillus flavus, which is a serious human health hazard), but maize with 70% of the cobs damaged by insects had 30.3% of the cobs contaminated with aflatoxin. Timely harvesting, appropriate drying methods as well as storage methods that reduce insect attack and maintain optimum grain moisture content are a significant contribution to reducing grain loss and improving food safety. Small-scale maize storage in Ghana and Malawi is mostly in traditional cribs, platforms, store houses, rooms and mud silos. However, a few farmers store their maize in improved cribs. Most of the small-scale storage structures do not give protection to maize from insects, mites, rodents, atmospheric moisture and heat. Thus, there is great potential for the adoption of improved storage methods where these are economically feasible and culturally acceptable. An important option in this regard is triple bagging (also called the Purdue Improved Cowpea Storage or PICS). In this PICS, grain is stored in two gas-tight (hermetic) bags and a tough outer bag, so that due to natural respiration oxygen is depleted and carbon dioxide accumulates. In this environment insect pests will not survive. To date, the technology has been devoted to the storage of cowpea but recent research indicates that they can also be

http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/

used to store maize. We are therefore proposing to test the effectiveness of these bags with the ultímate goal of recommending and promoting their use for maize storage in Ghana and Malawi. Triple bagging is currently promoted very successfully for cowpea storage in several West African countries but no consideration has so far been given to the disposal of plastic bags once they are no longer usable for grain storage. Besides demonstrating and extending the effective use of bag for maize storage, this project will also examine the potential for use of biodegradable plastics to reduce waste accumulation problems once plastic bags have reached the end of their useful life.

1.2.3 Problem statementPost-harvest losses continue to undermine food security and incomes of small-holder farmers in SSA, threatening livelihoods of vulnerable households. Post-harvest losses of cereals and grain legumes have been estimated to be between 10% and 30% in most SSA countries.. In Ghana, for instance, where annual average maize production is estimated at 1.6 million tonnes (MoFA, 2010), a 30% loss could translate to as much as 480,000 tonnes. Despite the efforts made by governments and donors in protecting stored grains against insect pests, about 200 million tonnes of stored food which is estimated at US $20 billion is lost annually in the world (Bengton 2005) with Eastern and Southern Africa having estimated PHL ofUS$1.6 billion a year.Losses due to improper harvesting methods, poor handling procedures, poor drying techniques and high moisture levels at harvest also pose major constraints to small-holder maize farmers in SSA.. Harvesting maize grain when grain moisture levels are higher than the recommended level creates a conducive environment for insects to thrive, at the same time the grain start developing moulds that leads to aflatoxin which posesgreat threat to human health. Delayed harvest could also result in insect infestation in the field before the crop is harvested thereforetimely harvesting is critical for reducing post-harvest losses through insect infestation.

Cost of agrochemicals and the correct methods of application for the control of insects is also a major constraint to small-holder farmers in SSA, who in some cases have little knowledge on their use. Incorrect applications of agrochemicals pose serious health risks to both consumers and applicators. Some insects have also developed resistance to some of the chemicals used for their control, while some natural enemies of insects have been destroyed by them. Moreover, the poor storage facilities of traditional farmers in the developing countries are unsuitable for effective conventional chemical control e.g. the use of fumigants, as most storagestructures are open to re-infestation by insect pests .In the absence of cost effective, safe and user friendly storage technologies, farmers are compelled to sell their produce immediately after harvest when prices are lowest and often below production cost. However, few months later the same farmers will start to buy the grain at much higher prices. Therefore, storage of grains gives small-holder farmers the opportunity to increase their earnings sometimesby fourfold, while enhancing household food availability.Adoption of improved post-harvest practices and technologies needs to be better understood from the economic, technical and social perspectives. Most of the previous attempts to reduce post-harvest losses have largely been unsuccessful because they focused on the farm level (World Bank, 2011). Hence our intervention will focus on systemic interventions that link the small-holder to remunerative market.

1.2.4 Describe and define the target groups and final beneficiaries, their needs and constraints and how the action will address these needs

The target group includes small-holder farmers and farmer-based organisations (FBOs) at village/community level. The final beneficiaries are the small-holder maize farmers, farmer-based organisations, agro-food processors, hermetic storage bag manufacturers, Researchers, Agricultural Extension Agents, Institutional maize buyers, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), Consumers and the Ghanaian and Malawian economy. The pre- and post-harvest constraints along the maize value chain and marketing of maize grain will be addressed in the table below.The study will adopt participatory action research approachesincluding field trials, joint assessment of technologies through participation in on-farm trials to ensure full engagement of target groups and-collective ownership of results. 1.2.5 Particular added-value elementsThe participation of private partners, Bio-Plastic Ghana limited, Poly-Pack in Malawi and Concern Universal (CU), an NGO in the project is an added value that ensures public/private partnership. The project seeks to focus on the development of biological control technologies such as the use of field pest attractants, trap crops and bio-degradable plastic liners to control pre and post-havest insect pests respectively, which promote environmental sustainability. Furthermore, the project will promote gender equality and equal opportunity through inclusion of female headed households who face labour and financial resource challenges when it comes to sourcing of external farm inputs.

STAKEHOLDER ANALYSISTarget groups and beneficiaries

Description of target groups and beneficiaries

Needs and constraints How project will address needs

Small-holder farmers and FBOs

Four hundred small-holder farmers of average landholding of up to 2 ha located in the transitional zone of Ghana. This will be repeated in Malawi. PFAG and ABOFAB are FBO’s operating in the target area of Ghana. This will be repeated in Malawi

Improved maize varieties (high yielding, pests and disease tolerant, consumer-acceptable), sustainable and environmentally friendly crop management systems, sustainable and environmentally friendly post- harvest technologies, access to remunerative markets

Improved maize varieties with tolerance to insect pests will be identified and promoted. Sustainable and environmentally friendly crop management systems and post-harvest technologies will be developed and promoted. Farmers and other stakeholders will be trained in post-harvest technologies. Farmers will be linked to institutional grain buyers.

Institutional maize buyers, and agro-processors

World Food Programs, the Breweries and other Medium Scale Agro-processors numbering about 20 would benefit from the program in Ghana. This will be repeated in Malawi.

Regular supply of good quality maize produce, sustainable post-harvest technologies

Training in the use of hermetic storage bags at village and community level.

Hermetic bag producers

Bio-Plastic Ghana limited in Ghana and Poly Pack Malawi are prívate manufacturers producing Hermetic bags in the two countries

Marketing of hermetic storage bags Downstream impact of the project will lead to increased demand of their products

Extension workers

There are about 60 extension officers in the target area in Ghana and about 40 in Malawi.

Adequate knowledge on appropriate sustainable crop management systems and sustainable post-harvest technologies to reduce post and pre-harvest loss due to insects

Training

Consumers About 14.5 million and 7 million people in Ghana and Malawi, respectively are going to benefit from the action

Regular supply of safe, nutritious and high quality maize at affordable prices.

Downstream impact of the project will lead to ready availability of high quality maize that meets consumer preferences

Policy makers, district assemblies and donors

In Ghana five maize production districts located in the transitional zone will be involved in the project

Adequate information to inform food security policy formulation

Awareness through demonstrations, workshops/seminars and policy briefs

NGOs Concern Universal, a U.K International Non-Governmental Organisation which focuses on rural development and food security

Adequate technology and technical backstopping

Provision of appropriate technologies

Researchers University of Ghana, Bvumbwe Agricultural Research Station and Julius Kuhn-Institute, Federal Research Centre on Cultivated Plants

Networking among other scientists on the continent and in Europe, Research capacities

Through collaboration, networking and cooperation



DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION (MAX 1 PAGE)

1.3.1 Background to the preparation of the action and preliminary results. The action came out from work done with small-holder farmers in the target areas in Ghana by CU, Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) and Abrono Organic Farming Project (ABOFAP) over the past four years. Participatoy needs assessment carried out with target farmers confirms documented high levels of grain losses at the pre- and post-harvest phases and its impact on farmer’s incomes and household food secuiry. Concern Universal and University of Ghana (UG) has been collaborating to evaluate post-harvest needs of farmers over the last two years and the proposed action seeks to buid upon this on-going collaboration. The projet partner, Malawi established the maize storage losses in the range of 10-15% through an FAO-Malawi funded project (survey on assessment of maize post-harvest losses in storage) conducted between 2008 and 2010. Based on that study, it was recommended that interventions aimed at reducing post-harvest losses be developed or identified and promoted. Therefore, BARS through its technical experts came up with the proposed actions in collaboration with its local associates and international partners (UoG and CU).

1.3.2 Describe the objectives of the action. (Elaborate here on the objectives mentioned in the table in Section 1.1 above). The project seeks to improve household food security in both Ghana and Malawi through increasing maize output among small-holder maize farmers. This will be achieved by implementing activities such as development of technologies and disseminating them to small-holder farmers that will result in addressing the problems farmers face during pre- and post-harvest period in maize as a result of pest infestations.

1.3.3 Describe the key stakeholder groups, their attitudes towards the action and any consultation undertaken with them. The stakeholder groups involved in this project include small-holder maize farmers, farmer-based organisations in Ghana and Malawi, Hermetic bag manufacturers, institutional maize buyers, Research Institutions (UoG, BARS in Malawi, and Julius Kuhn-Institute (JFI), Federal Research Centre on Cultivated Plants, Germany) and extension service organisation (Concerned Universal). A number of consultations took place among the partners (UoG, BARS, JKI and CU) including an initial partnership inception workshops held in Ghana and Nairobi as well as proposal development writeshop in Entebbe, Uganda. All the two workshops were facilitated and sponsored by Platform for African-European Partnership for Agricultural Resarch and Development (PAEPARD).

1.3.4 Provide brief information on the type of activities foreseen and specify related outputs and results, including a description of linkages/relationships between activity clusters. The action will develop sustainable and environmentally sustainable crop management options and post-harvest technologies with small-holder farmers to manage maize insect pests both in the pre and post- harvest chain of maize. Then after, technologies developed will be disseminated to small-holder farmers, agricultural extension agents, farmer-based organisations and other stakeholders through innovative approaches. The expected output of these activities is reduced losses attributable to insect pests in pre and post-harvest processing of maize.The action will lead to increase in maize grain output among small-holder farmers in the participating countries.

1.3.5 Indicate the broad timeframe for the action and describe any specific factor that has been taken into account.The project will be implemented approximately within 36 months because the action will include a number of research activities such as field trials, laboratory studies and some dissemination activities. On average research activities require approximately 18 months while another 18 months will be for dissemination and follow-up activities to maximise technology uptake and impact of the action and takes into consideration the number of target beneficiaries (15 000 farmers).



1 CHECKLIST FOR CONCEPT NOTEAFRICAN UNION RESEARCH GRANTS / HRST/ST/AURG/CALL2/2012 / EuropeAid/132-331/M/ACT/ACP / 10TH EDF

ADMINISTRATIVE DATA To be filled in by the applicant

Name of the Applicant University of Ghana

EuropeAid ID number (Optional)

Nationality8/Country9 and date of registration

Ghanaian/Ghana, 1948

Legal Entity File number10

Legal status11 Governmental Body- Public University

Partner 1 Name/EuropeAid ID number:Bvumbwe Agricultural Research Station

Nationality/Country of registration:Malawian/Malawi

Legal status: Governmental Body

Partner 2

NB: Add as many rows as partners

Name/EuropeAid ID number: Julius Kuhn-Institute (JFI)Nationality/Country of registration: German/Germany

Legal status: : Governmental Body

Partner 3 Name/EuropeAid ID number: Concern Universal

Nationality/Country of registration:UK/Ghana

Legal status: Non-Governmental Organisation

8 For individuals.9 For organisations.10 If the applicant has already signed a contract with the European Commission.11 E.g. non profit making, governmental body, international organisation…November 2010 (Update March 2011) Page 10 of 66


BEFORE SENDING YOUR CONCEPT NOTE, PLEASE CHECK THAT EACH OF THE FOLLOWING POINTS IS COMPLETE AND RESPECTS THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA :

To be filled in by the applicant

Title of the Proposal: Management of Pre- and Post- Harvest Insect Pests of Maize in Ghana and Malawi Yes No

PART 1 (ADMINISTRATIVE)1. The instructions for concept note, published for this call for proposals, have been followed

√

2. The Declaration by the applicant has been filled in and has been signed √

3. The proposal is typed and is in English or French. Where more than one language is allowed, the proposal is drafted in the language most commonly used by the target population in the country in which the action takes place.

√

4. One original and 2 copies are included √

5. An electronic version of the concept note (CD-Rom) is enclosed √

PART 2 (ELIGIBILITY)6. The action will be implemented in an eligible country(ies)

√

7. The duration of the action is between 12 months and 36 months (the minimum and maximum allowed) √

8. The requested contribution is between 500,000 EURO and 750,000 EURO (the minimum and maximum allowed)

√

9. The present Checklist and the Declaration by the applicant are filled in and sent with the Concept Note √



2 DECLARATION BY THE APPLICANT FOR CONCEPT NOTE

The applicant, represented by the undersigned, being the authorised signatory of the applicant, and in the context of the present application, representing any partners in the proposed action, hereby declares that

the applicant has the sources of financing and professional competence and qualifications specified in Section 2 of the Guidelines for Applicants;

the applicant undertakes to comply with the obligations foreseen in the partnership statement of the grant application form and with the principles of good partnership practice;

the applicant is directly responsible for the preparation, management and implementation of the action with its partners, if any, and is not acting as an intermediary;

the applicant and its partners are not in any of the situations excluding them from participating in contracts which are listed in Section 2.3.3 of the Practical Guide to contract procedures for EU external actions (available from the following Internet address: http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/work/procedures/implementation/index_en.htm. Furthermore, it is recognised and accepted that if we participate in spite of being in any of these situations, we may be excluded from other procedures in accordance with Section 2.3.5 of the Practical Guide;

the applicant and each partner (if any) are in a position to deliver immediately, upon request, the supporting documents stipulated under Section 2.4 of the Guidelines for Applicants.;

the applicant and each partner (if any) are eligible in accordance with the criteria set out under Sections 2.1.1 and 2.1.2 of the Guidelines for Applicants;

if recommended to be awarded a grant, the applicant accepts the contractual conditions as laid down in the Standard Contract annexed to the Guidelines for Applicants (annex G);

the applicant and its partners are aware that, for the purposes of safeguarding the financial interests of the European Union, their personal data may be transferred to internal audit services, to the European Court of Auditors, to the Financial Irregularities Panel or to the European Anti-Fraud Office.

Signed on behalf of the applicant

Name Professor Samuel Kwame Offei

Signature

PositionProvost, College of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences, University of Ghana

Date 20-04-2012

Page 12 of 66

http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/work/procedures/implementation/index_en.htm

3 ASSESSMENT GRID FOR CONCEPT NOTE(FOR THE USE OF THE CONTRACTING AUTHORITY ONLY)

YES NO

1. The submission deadline has been respected √

2. The Checklist has been duly completed √

The administrative verification has been conducted by:

Date:

√

DECISION 1: The Committee has decided to evaluate the Concept Note after having passed the Administrative check. √

The evaluation of the Concept Note has been conducted by:

Date:

√

DECISION 2: The Committee has decided to recommend evaluating the full application form. √

Page 13 of 66

PART B. FULL APPLICATION FORM

4 GENERAL INFORMATIONReference of the Call for Proposals

HRST/ST/AURG/CALL2/2012 / EuropeAid/132-331/M/ACT/ACP

Title of the Call for Proposals African Union Research Grants

Name of the applicantInstitute of Agricultural Research, College of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon

Title of the actionManagement of Pre- and Post- Harvest Insect Pests of Maize in Ghana and Malawi

Location of the action

-specify country(ies) region(s) that will benefit from the action

Ghana (West Africa) and Malawi (Southern Africa)

[No. of the Lot] 1

Page 14 of 66

5 THE ACTION12

BUDGET OF THE ACTION, AMOUNT REQUESTED FROM THE CONTRACTING AUTHORITY AND OTHER EXPECTED SOURCES OF FUNDING

Fill in Annex B to the Guidelines for applicants to provide information on: the budget of the action (worksheet 1), for the total duration of the action and for its first 12 months; justification on the budget (worksheet 2), for the total duration of the action and, amount requested from the Contracting Authority and other expected sources of funding for the

action for the total duration (worksheet 3).For further information see the Guidelines for grant applicants (Sections 1.3, 2.1.4 and 2.2.5).

Please note that the cost of the action and the contribution requested from the Contracting Authority have to be expressed in EURO.

2.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE ACTION

2.2.1 Description (max 14 pages)

2.2.1.1 Making reference to the overall objective(s) and specific objective(s), outputs and results described in the concept note elaborate on specific expected results indicating how the action will improve the situation of the target groups and final beneficiaries as well as the technical and management capacities of target groups and/or any local partners. Indicate in particular foreseen publications.

2.2.1.1.1 Overall objective(s) and specific objective(s) of the project. The overall objective of this project is to improve household food security in Ghana and Malawi. The specific objectives are to: Develop crop management systems to enhance maize production and reduce maize grain losses in the field before storage Develop sustainable and environmentally friendly storage technology Develop Innovative strategy to promote and disseminate sustainable and environmentally friendly storage technologies to farmers

2.2.1.1.2 The expected outputs from the overall and specific objectives. It is expected that this project will ultimately result in development of sustainable and environmentally friendly crop management systems that will reduce pre-harvest insect pests of maize. Furthermore, the project is expected to develop sustainable and environmentally friendly post-harvest technolgies to reduce maize grain losses due to insect pests. Through the implementation of the project, innovative ways of disseminating crop management options and post-harvest technologies to reduce maize insect pests during both the pre- and post-harvest phases of the crop will be made available to farmer-based organisations, NGOs, Agricultural Extension Agents and other beneficiaries.

2.2.1.1.3 Description of target group and other beneficiaries. The main target groups of the project will be small-holder maize farmers both from Ghana and Malawi. Additionally, other players in the maize production and delivery and marketing chains will also benefit from the Project such as commercial maize storage companies, extension agents, seed companies, agro-processors, development and relief NGOs are among the end-users of the technologies. Through the actions to be undertaken, the capacities and networks of African Researchers will be enhanced especially those from the IAR, UoG and BARS in Malawi. The project will also enhance AU’s competitiveness in agricultural research for development. As the partners involved in the implementation of the project comprise of the private sector, the academia and the civil society, this will result in the establishment of sustainable partnership among the industry, academia and civil society.

2.2.1.1.4 Specific expected results indicating how each of the actions (Activities 1-3) will improve the situation of the target groups and final beneficiaries. As identified in the previous section, the main target group will be small-holder maize growers in Ghana and Malawi. The overall expected outcomes will

12 The evaluation committee will refer to information already provided in the Concept Note as regards objectives and relevance of the action.

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include availability of sustainable crop management options to reduce maize insect pests in the field, sustainable post-harvest technologies to reduce maize insect pest infestation and innovative strategies to extend both pre and post-harvest technologies to small-holder maize farmers.

Expected outcome 1: Sustainable and environmentally friendly crop management systems

Ghana and Malawi small-holder maize farmers lose substantail amount of their maize crop in the field even before the crop is harvested due to insect pest infestation. The insect infestation in the field mostly occurs due to late harvesting because of transportation or labour problems or both. Therefore, late harvesting of the maize from the field predisposes the crop to insect infestation. The National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS) both in Ghana and Malawi have developed several maize varieties some of which may be tolerant to insect pest infestation. Therefore developing sustainable and environmentally friendly crop management systems including the use of trap crops and maize varieties tolerant to insect pests as well as optimising planting and harvesting time for various maize varieties will not only reduce pest infestation but also increase maize output of farmers. Since the project will use participatory approachies in the development of the technologies, this will enhance the managerial capacities of the target beneficiaries.

Expected outcome 2: To develop technologies to reduce maize storage pests and improve maize grain quality). Postharvest losses in maize in both Ghana and Malawi are estimated in the range of 10-30% commonly during storage due to major storage insects pests of maize such as Prostephanus truncatus and Sitophilus zeamais. Mostly these losses occur as a result of por storage methods applied by small-holder farmers. Most of the current storage structures used by farmers in both Ghana and Malawi are ineffective in reducing losses caused by insect pests as these structures are often prone to re-infestation even when the maize are treated with conventional chemicals. Cost of agrochemicals and the correct methods of application for the control of insects is also a major constraint to small-holder farmers in both Ghana and Malawi, who in some cases have little knowledge on their use. Incorrect use of agrochemicals poses serious health risks to both consumers and applicators. In the absence of cost effective, safe and user friendly storage technologies, farmers are compelled to sell their produce immediately after harvest when prices are lowest and often below production cost. Therefore introduction and promotion of environmentally friendly technologies such as the hermetic storage bags among small-holder farmers will not only enhance food security but also improve their income as they would be able to store their produce longer and sell at a later time when the demand for maize is high.

Expected outcome 3: Development of Innovative strategy to promote and disseminate sustainable and environmentally friendly storage technologies to farmers. Strategies to disseminate sustainable crop management systems and postharvest technologies to farmers, farmer-based organisations and other users of the technologies are important if the technologies are to be used by the target beneficiaries. Farmers will also adopt improved postharvest practices and technologies if these technologies are technically, socially and economically feasible from their perspectives. Most of the previous attempts to reduce post-harvest losses have largely been unsuccessful because they focused on the farm level without looking at the marketing chain. Hence activities leading to this expected outcome will link farmers to institutional buyers which will ensure that farmers obtain remunerative price for their produce. This presents a two-pronged positive effect. Firstly, to introduce and generate farmer interest in the use of hermetic bags with the added benefits compared to current farmer practices and secondly, directly influence sales and eventually increase profit margins of the manufacturer. This will result in improved food security and increased household income for the farmer while the hermetic bag manufacturers will increase their output sales. Since Agricultural Extension Agents and farmer-based organisations are also partners, developing innovative strategies will also enable them to reach out to a larger number of farmers with these technologies.

2.2.1.2. Making reference to the overall objective(s) and specific objective(s), outputs and results described in the concept note identify and describe in detail each activity (or work package) to be undertaken to produce results, justifying the choice of the activities and specifying the role of each partner (and associates or contractors or sub-grantees where applicable) in the activities. In this respect, the detailed description of activities must not repeat the action plan (to be provided in Section 2.2.3 below) but demonstrate coherence and consistency in the project design

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Work package 1. Develop crop management systems to enhance maize production and reduce maize grain losses in the field before storage.

Detailed Activities

1.1. Baseline survey

Baseline survey including literature review will be conducted to determine production levels of maize, production constraints, and level of post-harvest losses at different stages of the crop along the value chain such as pre-harvesting, harvesting, transportation, dehusking, shelling, drying, storage and marketing. Information obtained from this survey will be used to fine-tune subsequent research activities to be carried out for greater impact. The information from the survey will also be used as baseline data against which impact of the project activities will be measured. This study will be carried out by the UoG and the BARS in Malawi.

1.2. Field sampling and monitoring of insect pests of maizeStudies will be conducted to monitor population of insect pests of maize accross different production seasons in the two countries. These studies will enable us to identify peak insect pests population levels at which control measures should be targeted. It is expected that from these studies, more information will be obtained on the presence of pollinators, indigenous natural enemies and emerging pests in the maize cropping system, which will be useful to growers and policy makers on appropriate pest control options to use to manage these and other pests while conserving pollinators in the production system. These studies will be carried out by the UoG and BARS.

1.3 Identify and field test of host-plant attractants for maize field pest controlStudies will be carried out in the laboratories and greenhouse to identify specific host plant based attractants which will be used as monitoring and mass trapping tools for maize insect pest control both in the field and in storage. After identifying the attractants in the laboratory, the efficacy of the attractant will be tested in a controlled environment in a screenhouse. The performance of the attractants will then be evaluated in the field as a monitoring tool to monitor pest population before initiating control measures and/or mass trapping tool to control insect pest population in the field or in storage. These studies will be carried out by JKI in collaboration with the UoG and BARS in Malawi.

1.4. Identification and field test of pheromone attractants for maize field pest controlPheromones from insects of interest will be collected in the lab. Active compounds will then be identified and the biological activity of the active compounds comfirmed in a controlled environment in a screenhouse. The promising active compounds and blends will then be evaluated in the field as monitoring tool and/or mass trapping tool to manage insect pest in the field and in storage. The field trials will then be validated in farmers’ fields. This study will be carried out by JKI in collaboration with the UoG and BARS in Malawi.

1.5 Field trials of trap crop technology to manage insect pests of maizeField studies will be conducted on the use of trap crops to manage insect pests of maize. Push-Pull as this technogy is called is a novel approach in pest management that uses a repellent intercrop and an attractive trap plant. Insect pests are repelled from the food crop and are simultaneously attracted to a trap crop. The idea is to use the more attractive crops or a relatively less economically important crop to attract migrating insects or lure them away from the main (key) crops. The trap crop can then be treated with an approved IPM compatible insecticides to kill the pests. The most promising trap crops will then be evaluated with farmers and other stakeholders on farmers’ field. Manuals on best practices on the use of trap crops will then be developed for training farmers. Trap crop technology provides several benefits to small-holder farmers, including reduced run-off and soil erosion, enhanced soil fertility, minimized use of agrochemicals, improved food security and increased household income. This study will be conducted by UoG and BARS with technical backstopping from JKI.

1.6. Field trials to manage maize insect pests through crop management practicesSeveral studies will be performed on-farm to test different agronomic practices geared towards reducing insect pest damage to maize in the field before harvest. Some of the studies that will be done will include evaluation of different maize varieties developed by the NARS for yield and tolerance to both pre and post-harvest insect pests of maize. These studies will be carried out across seasons in the study areas. Maize varieties with high yield potential and tolerance to insect pests will not only increase farmers yield but also reduce loss of maize grain due to insect damage. Optimum time of harvesting for the different maize varieties with varying maturity periods (early maturing, medium maturing and late maturing) at different growing seasons will also be determined. This will enable farmers to incur minimum damage by insect pest in the field before maize is harvested. Optimum weeding regimes for the different maize varieties being

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grown by farmers that will reduce insect pest population in the field will also be determined. Such crop management options are less costly for both the farmer and the environment since they do not involve the use of any chemical for controlling insect pests.

Work package 2. 2. Develop sustainable and environmentally friendly storage technology Detailed Activities

2.1 Baseline study including desk studySee 1.1 above

2.2 Assess losses of maize grain along the post-harvest chain Losses of maize grain occur at different stages of the post-harvest chain right from harvest until the maize is sold to the consumer. Currently the extent of losses at the different stages (transportation, dehusking, shelling, drying and storage and marketing) of the chain is not known. The assessment of the post-harvest losses in maize at various stages of handling would help in identifying the various factors responsible for such losses and their levels of losses which in turn would help in developing proper measures to minimize post-harvest losses at different stages. Studies will hence be conducted to determine losses of maize at different stages of the post-harvest chain. These studies will provide information on the critical stages along the post-harvest chain at which control measures should be targeted. These studies will be conducted both in Ghana and Malawi by UoG and BARS respectively, with support from the associate partners such as Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) and similar organisations in Malawi.

2.3 Evaluate the effectiveness of three layer hermetic bags compared with three different storage practices in controlling storage pests and diseasesThe effectiveness of the three layer hermetic storage bags will be compared with the three most commonly used storage practices being used in each of the participating countries. The storage practices include use of barns, cribs and jute or polypropylene bags. These studies on the comparison of the effectiveness of the Hermetic bags with the existing storage practices will provide information that will assist farmers in coming up with informed choices when making decision on storage issues.

2.4 Determine optimum conditions (temperature, moisture levels) for using biodegradable liners for hermetically triple layer storage bagsSometimes, depending on the prevailing conditions farmers in Ghana and Malawi harvest their maize when the moisture content is high and dry the maize during or just before storage. However, storage of such maize grain with high moisture content above the recommended moisture content in hermetic bags commonly result in development of of mycotoxins which will render the grain unsafe for both human consumption and animal feed. In this regard, studies will be conducted to determine the optimal physical storage conditions such as grain moisture content, temperature and other external conditions ideal for use on biodegradable liners hermetically triple layers bags for safe storage against different storage insect species. These studies on temperature and moisture content of maize grain will focus mainly at the time of storage as practiced by small-holder farmers both in Ghana and Malawi. Based on the studies, the recommended temperature and moisture content of maize which will prevent development of mycotoxin within the grain will be identified. These studies will be carried out by both UoG and BARS with technical support from JKI.

2.5 Testing the gas permeability of various plastic liners at various degrees of bio-degradabilityCurrently, proper disposal of the plastic liners of hermetic storage bags have not been generated. Furthermore, the gas permeability of various plastic liners at various degree of bio-degradability is not known, as such the project will study this in order to come up with plastic liners which are bio-degradable and at the same time will prevent gas leakages. Therefore, various liners will be tested to storage of maize at different moisture contents to determine gas-tightness because those with heavy gas leakages can potentially attract rodents due to the release of volatile gases.

2.6. Establish cost effectiveness of production and use of different storage technologies.The uptake of the hermetic bag technology by farmers and other end-users will depend on their affordability. Hence we will carry out studies to assess the cost effectiveness of the production and use of the hermetic bags compared with other storage methods currently being used by farmers. This study will be carried out by UoG, BARS, CU and PFAG.

Work package 3. Develop Innovative strategies to promote and disseminate sustainable and environmentally friendly storage technologies to farmers

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Detailed Activities3.1 Evaluate socio-economic drivers of adoption of post-harvest technologies among small-holder farmers.Uptake of technologies by small-holder farmers depend on several factors including education, sex, production resources including labour, credit and land as well as production objectives. Therefore before the technologies are disseminated to the intended beneficiaries, studies will be conducted to evaluate factors that are likely to influence the adoption of the various technologies so as to enable us factor them into our dissemination strategies. These studies will be carried out together with all the partners involved in the project.

3.2 Capacity building of smallholder farmers for technology adoption: Uptake of technologies to manage both pre- and post-harvest insect pests by farmers will depend on the way these technologies are disseminated to them. The Action will employ participatory learning approaches to build the capacity of target beneficiaries to adopt technologies developed. In addition, field days, farmer field schools and use of lead farmers in a beneficiary-led model will be utilised to fine-tune the designing and conducting of field trials.

3.3 Carry out maize sub-sector study and market survey: adopting technologies by smallholder farmes involves investment of additional resources inlcluding time and financial resources. Given the very informal nature of the maize market in Ghana, small holder farmers are reluctant to make the needed investments since they cannot be sure of renumerative returns. Yet there are opportunites and and higher-end market including institutional food processors which provide renumerative prices for maize which smallholder farmers are currently unable to access. The project will carry out a conprehensive maize sub-sector study to identify the major players along the value chain as well as the challenges and opportunities in the sub-sector. This will be followed by an in-depth market research focusing on the potential markets in-country and internationally to identify demand trends, quality requirements and other barriers to entry to these markets. This will facilitate the design of strategies for smallholder farmers to access these markets.

3.4 Linkage of farmers/groups to institutional buyersSmallhoder farmer groups will be linked up with institutional buyers who buy high quality grains in large quantities. This will enable farmers to get remunerative price for their produce to serve as incentives for the farmers to invest in the production of good quality grains.

3.5: Development of manual and video documentaries: In order to make findings of the action available to the wider group of final beneficiaries and maximise the benefits of the action, simplified user and training manuals on the proposed technologies will be developed, published and made available to smallholder farmers through existing channels such as the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Farmer Association and other NGOs. In addition, video documentaries will be developed to further enhance communication and dissemination of the technologies. The launch of these manuals and videos will be given media coverage to faciliate greater awaness and also further enhance the visibility of the actions.

2.2.2. Methodology (Max 4 pages)The methods of implementation and reasons for the proposed methodology

Work package 1. Develop crop management systems to enhance maize production and reduce maize grain losses in the field before storage.

1.1 Baseline surveyFocus group discussions, key informant interviews, participant observations and semi-structured questionnaires would be used to determine production levels of maize in the target area and extent of losses of maize grain at different stages of the crop along the value chain as well as existing post-harvest storage facilities being used by small-holder farmers in the study areas.

1.2. Field sampling and monitoring of insect pests of maize Sampling procedures used will be similar to that common to most insects including use of baited and unbaited traps, visual observations, use of sweep net, jarring and tapping of plants etc. Samples of all insects (Sesamia calamistis, Busseola fusca and Eldana saccharina, herein referred as maize pests) will be done in 20 maize farms established by the project in Research Centers and grower’s farms across selected ecological regions where maize is mainly grown in Ghana and Malawi. Maize insects collected will be kept in properly labeled zip-lock bags and transported to the laboratory for further identification. Maize insect data

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will be collected on 100 randomly selected maize plants observed at each location. Numbers of all insects will be analyzed separately and also pooled to obtain the total abundance of all insect species including pollinators and natural enemies per plant per location. We will use the Shannon-Wiener Index or the Shannon-Weaver Index, which is one of several diversity indices used to measure diversity in categorical data. At harvest cob damage assessment will be done on 100 randomly selected cobs. Damage due to maize insect pests will be recorded. In addition HOBO data loggers will be set in each location to record temperature, humidity and precipitation within the period of the experiment. We will use appropriate statistical methods to analyze insect numbers and weather variables. Some of the analyses to be used include simple and multiple regression analyses, multivariate repeated measure analysis, one and two analyses of variance etc. We will also use cumulative degree-days and insect numbers to develop predictive models using polynomial, Weibull and logistic functions. These models will be used to advise growers on possible timing of control. The results from this study will also reveal the presence of pollinators, indigenous natural enemies and emerging pests in the maize crop system, which will be useful to advice growers and policy makers on appropriate pest control options to use to manage this and other pests while conserving pollinators in the production system. Data will represent baseline information to assess the long-term impact of climate change and other environmental parameters in the maize cropping systems at these sites. In order to generate high resolution insect count and weather data for predictive models, data will be collected two to three days in a week.

1.3 Identify and field test host-plant attractants for maize field pest monitoringWe will do this work in the laboratory, greenhouse and research and farmer’s fields. Laboratory studies will involve use of analytical [(gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)], electrophysiological [(gas-chromatography-electroantennogram (GC-EAG)] and behavioral (olfactometers) research techniques to identify active compounds that can attract maize pests in the field and storage facilities. Volatile collections from host plants. Headspace volatiles will be collected from different maize varieties using protocols which have previously been used by members of the team. Headspace volatiles will be collected from each maize variety at two growth stages (vegetative and fruiting) after planting. An individual plant will be placed in a headspace volatile collection chamber consisting of a glass jar which is large enough to contain a single maize plant at the different growth stage. Headspace volatiles from the different maize plants will be collected for 24 h by pulling purified air at a rate of 1 liter/min through the jar. Volatiles will be trapped using 100 mg of Super-Q (Alltech Associates Inc., Deerfield, IL) or Porapak-Q (Supelco, Bellefonte, PA) adsorbent traps and eluted with 1 ml of an appropriate solvent. The solution will be concentrated by evaporation to ~ 50 L and stored in the freezer (-20ºC) until use. Headspace volatiles will be collected from uninfested and insect infested plants and stored maize of each species to identify herbivore-induced volatiles. Greenhouse studies will be done to determine the performance of the attractant in controlled environments. The field studies will involve evaluation of the identified attractants in the regions where the work will be implemented. We will use the attractants to develop an effective trapping (monitoring) program for small-holder maize producers.

1.4. Identify and field test pheromone attractants for maize field pest control Analytical procedures described in section 1.3 above will be used to identify pheromone compound from the insects. We will do this work mainly in the laboratory after which the identified compounds will be tested in the field. In this experiments, we will select two insect pests found to be a major problem in maize production in Ghana and Malawi. Insect will be obtained from Ghana and Malawi to collect the volatiles. Headspace volatiles will be collected for 24 hours from virgin males and females and mated and unmated adults. Compounds that will be trapped in using 100 mg of Super-Q (Alltech Associates Inc., Deerfield, IL) or Porapak-Q (Supelco, Bellefonte, PA) adsorbent traps will be eluted with an appropriate solvent such as methylene chloride. The solution will be concentrated by evaporation to ~ 50 L and stored in the freezer (-20ºC) until use. To identify the composition of all compounds in the headspace volatiles from the insects, we will inject a known amount of the solution into an Agilent GC-MS 5975C GC-MS system (Agilent Tech. Inc., Santa Clara, CA) and all peaks obtained will be identified. To identify active compounds from the peaks obtained from the GC-MS mass spectra, we will use a coupled gas chromatography-electroantennogram detection (GC-EAD) familiar and have previously been used by the some of the project personnel. The GC-EAD system is equipped with a flame ionization detector (FID). For lack of adequate space details of the GC-EAD system and the program which will be used will not be provided in this proposal. Compounds idetified as active for the insects will be further evaluated as attractants using two-way and four-choice olfactometer bioassays. Synthetic compounds of high purity (>98%) will be purchased (or synthesized) from chemical suppliers and serially diluted in appropriate solvents. The purity of these compounds will be confirmed by GC and GC-MS. We will test different doses to determine the best dose. Compounds (at the optimal doses) will also be tested as blends to determine possible synergistic interactions. Novel compound will further be evaluated after which a patent will be applied for the attractant.

1.5 Field trials on trap crop technology to manage insect pests of maizePage 20 of 66

Trap crops have been developed for many insect pests. The idea is to use the more attractive crops or a relatively less economically important crop to detect migrating insects or lure them away from the main (key) crops. The trap crop can then be treated with an approved IPM compatible insecticide to kill the pests. In accomplishing this, we will first, conduct trials at research centers and grower’s farms to evaluate the attractiveness of various maize varieties and other preferred plant of some of these pests like sugar cane. High population densities of maize pests are typically recorded annually on fields in the region ensuring high insect pressure necessary for the trials. Attractiveness of plants will be evaluated by sampling all pests and by vacuuming in predetermined length of row on a weekly or biweekly basis. Depending on land availability, each maize field will be more than one acre. Trap crop to be selected will be based on a preliminary study. The main crop (maize) will be planted at the same time in the inner rows. In some trials, the trap crop will be planted ~ 2 weeks before the main crop so that the trap crop is available at the beginning of maize pests migration and activity. The control plots (non-trap cropped plots) will be similar but without the trap crop planted on the border and will be located at least 100 m away from trap-cropped plots. There will be four replicates each for trap-cropped and non-trap cropped plots. Insects will be controlled in the trap crop either by vacuuming daily (or as necessary) or by weekly spray of an approved IPM compatible insecticide such microbials and biopesticides. Plots will be evaluated weekly by sampling 50 randomly selected plants from each inner row for maize pests densities and feeding holes (damage ratings). Plants will also be sampled for non-target beneficial insects. At harvest, 100 plants will be selected randomly from each inner row and rated for insect damage. Damage ratings will be based on a scales developed for maize in other studies. A similar evaluation will be carried out in the control (non-trap cropped) plots. The average number of larvae and adults of insect per plant and damage ratings will be compared using ANOVA followed by Tukey-Kramer Honesty Significance Difference (HSD) test (P < 0.05).Also, we will investigate factors that will help reduce the attack of maize by insect pests through intercropping of maize with other crops. Intercropping maize with cowpea, pigeonpea or desmodium and Napier grass (push-pull technology) are possible options. The push–pull technology involves use of behaviour-modifying stimuli to manipulate the distribution and abundance of stem borers and beneficial insects for management of stem borer pests. The odors from the desmodium will repel the stem borers from attacking the maize and get attracted to the napier grass for egg laying and production although their development will be inhibited by the napier grass. It is based on in-depth understanding of chemical ecology involved in this process.

1.6. Field trials to manage maize insect pests through crop management practices. Eight maize varieties of varying maturity periods developed by the NARS and four local varieties will be evaluated for yield and their tolerance to insect pests in the field. These varieties will be planted at six weekly intervals beginning from the onset of the rainy season to determine optimum time for planting the various varieties. The various varieities planted at the different planting dates will also be harvested at different periods beginning from the time of physiological maturity to determine the optimum time of harvesting. These studies will be conducted in three different locations within the study regions on farmers’ field. In each location the experiment will be conducted on the fields of four different farms which will be considered as replicates. Plots will be evaluated weekly by sampling 20 plants from each inner row for maize pest densities and feeding holes. At harvest, 50 plants from each treatment will be randomly sampled and rated for insect damage based on scales developed for other studies. In addition data such as days to flowering and maturity, and maize grain yield will be determined. The data collected will be analysed statistically using ANOVA followed by Tukey-Kramer HSD test (P < 0.05).

Work package 2. 2. Develop sustainable and environmentally friendly storage technology 2.1. Baseline and desk study Baseline and desk studies will be carried out to assess the current post-harvest management technologies in use in the study regions. The studies will be carried out using participant observations, key informant interviews, focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews. The data will be analysed using SPSS.

2.2 Assess losses of maize grain along the post-harvest chain Studies will be carried out to assess losses of maize grain along the post-harvest chain using a survey. A multi-stage and systematic sampling technique will be used to randomly select 200 farm households for the survey. Data will be collected using semi-structured questionnaire and a checklist for individual and key informant interviews respectively. Both qualitative and quantitative data on maize production, agronomic practices, input use, yield levels and grain losses along the post-harvest chain and type of losses (economic and qualitative losses). We will use SPSS to analyse the data.

2.3 Evaluate the effectiveness of triple layer hermetic bags compared with three different storage practices in controlling storage pests and diseases

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Experiment will be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of triple layer hermitically sealed bags with that of the three most commonly used storage methods used in the study regions identified through the baseline study. The storage methods include barns, cribs and jute or polypropylene bags. These methods will be compared with that of the hermitically sealed bags. The studies will be laid both on-station and on-farm where samples will be collected for analysis in the laboratory on the following parameter; number of live insects, number of dead insects, weight loss, number of damaged grains by insects, number of moulded grains and number of undamaged grains will be used as a measure to determine the effectiveness of each storage option. These studies will be conducted for a storage period range of 3 to 12 months commonly practiced in Ghana and Malawi respectively, where sampling will be conducted on monthly basis so that performance of the tested technology can be observed at different stages along the storage period. Furthermore, this will provide information on the build up of storage insect pests at different stages along the storage period. In considering that the technology (hermetic bag) is based on the principle of gas tightness, the project shall use destructive type of sampling to avoid affecting the outcome of the study as frequent opening of the hermetic bags (for sampling) can affect the performance in controlling the storage insect pests.

2.4 Determine optimum and critical conditions (temperature, moisture levels) for using biodegradable liners for hermetically triple layer storage bagsExperiments will be conducted to test the efficacy of hermetic storage at various moisture and temperature conditions common in Ghana and Malawi. Depending on the results of the baseline survey, experiments will be carried out to determine how long it takes to achieve a protective atmosphere at given moisture contents, temperatures and levels of insect infestation. The gas-tightness of bags or plastic liners will be tested after mechanic twisting. Furthermore it will be tested if attractive volatiles from maize can penetrate the plastic liners. The upper limit of grain moisture content above which hermetic storage of maize would no longer be safe (due to risk of mycotoxin formation) will be determined. A mechanism to render gastight bags re-sealable after grains have been removed and to keep a maximum of the low-oxygen atmosphere while removing grain will be developed.

2.5 Testing the gas permeability of various plastic liners at various degrees of bio-degradabilityIt will be determined for how long plastic liners stored in the open in Ghana or Malawi can be utilized for hermetic storage when they contain various amounts of metal to render the plastic bio-degradable. This will be done by testing the liners in an exsiccator and one side (above the liner) will be flooded with nitrogen, while the other side remains ambient air. Oxygen contents in the nitrogen atmosphere will be determined by an oximeter (Servomex 570 A or Toray oximeter, JKI)

2.6. Establish cost effectiveness of production and use of different storage technologies The cost of production of hermetic bags as well as the various distribution channels will be determined by a comprehensive assessment of the entire production process of the hermetic bags to determine the gross profit at various retailer prices which are sustainable (i.e. to the producer and the consumer). The benefit/cost ratio approach which determines the viability of a project will be used in establishing the profitability and sustainability of production of hermetic bags in terms of gross margins for the manufacturer and cost effectiveness of use by the farmer. Assess the marginal benefits for storage of grains using hermetic bags compared to current farmer practices. Since a person’s marginal benefit is the maximum amount they are willing to pay to consume that additional unit of a good or service, it is important to determine this level of utility (with reference to the marginal utility theory) in using the hermetic bags for maize grain storage and also determine the willingness to pay for such a product vis a vis the traditional methods of grain storage. This will be undertaken by UoG, BARI, Concern Universal (CU) and Bio-Plastic Ghana (BP).

Work package 3. Develop Innovative strategy to promote and disseminate sustainable and environmentally friendly storage technologies to farmers developed.

3.1 Evaluate socio-economic drivers of adoption of post-harvest technologies among small-holder farmersA multi-stage and systematic sampling technique will be used to randomly select 200 farm households for the survey. This study will be carried using semi-structured questionnaire, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Both qualitative and quantitative data on sources of income and income levels, access to credit, household size, production objectives, input use, yield levels and grain losses along the post-harvest chain and type of losses (economic and qualitative losses). We will use SPSS to analyse the data.

3.2 Develop innovative strategies for disseminating technologies to farmers

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http://dict.leo.org/ende?lp=ende&p=DOKJAA&search=exsiccator&trestr=0x2001

We will investigate the possibilities of establishing distribution networks for storage bags. We will also develop training materials for farmer training on hermetic storage bags and train farmers on the use of hermetic storage bags. We will mobilize and sensitize farmers, and train them on improved storage pest and disease management for quality grain production. Farmers will also be trained on proper grain handling techniques. We will also develop a participatory model for technology transfer using a harmonized outreach plan and continuous feedback system. We will do this by using field days, training, meetings, focus groups, and games means to reach farmers, and other local stakeholders.

3.3 Linkage of farmers/groups to institutional buyersThese actions are not prolongation of a previous action and therefore no explanation in given to how the action is intended to build on the results of this previous action.

Give the main conclusions and recommendations of evaluations that might have been carried out; where the action is part of a larger programme, explain how it fits or is coordinated with this programme or any other possibly planned project. Please specify the potential synergies with other initiatives, in particular from the European Union; the procedures for follow up and internal/external evaluationThis is a new project which will be implemented by partners and build upon it in subsequent years to ensure sustainability

The role and participation in the action of the various actors and stakeholders (local partner(s), target groups, local authorities, etc.), and the reasons for which these roles have been assigned to them. The main actors of the project are small-holder maize farmers, Research Scientists from UoG, CU, BARS, JKI etc. (Please add more to this). The main organisations will be reponsible for the execution of the project. Given the expertise and capacity of each organisation the following are described.

Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR), College of Agrciculture and Consumer Sciences, University of Ghana. The IAR consists of three Research Centres, namely Soil and Irrigation Research Centre, Kpong, Forest and Horticultural Crops Research Centre, Kade, and Livestock and Poultry Research Centre, Accra. The Institute mainly conducts research but also contributes to the teaching and learning of pertinent areas of agricultural science at the University of Ghana. Additionally, the Institute develops agricultural technologies for the various agro-ecological zones of the country as well as trains farmers, extension agents and other stakeholders in the agricultural industry. Over the years, the Research Centres of the Institute have developed and disseminated some improved technologies to farmers nationwide for increased agricultural productivity, poverty reduction and attainment of food security in Ghana. Several agricultural professionals and students (both undergraduates and postgraduates) have also been trained for the improvement of the national agricultural sector. Also, the University of Ghana in general and the Institute in particular, have had collaborative projects with a number of fronts in Africa and reputable world organizations like FAO, IMF, World Bank to mention a few. A number of projects focusing on major production constraints have been jointly implemented by the the Institute under the College of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences. Furthermore, we collaborate with other universities and advanced institutions to employ cutting-edge science for developing products that offer better resistance to biological and environmental stresses as well as improved nutrition. The alliances with universities and advanced institutions have been created based on compatibility of activities and comparative advantages.

Concern Universal. Is an international development organisation tackling poverty from the grassroot. We create opportunities for people around the world to improve their lives and shape their own futures. By building skills and connecting people at all levels in society, we help communities deliver practical solutions with long term impact. Working with partner organisations, we support community projects that improve livelihoods, reduce vulnerability and promote greater equality.To achieve this, we also influence policy, pioneer business partnerships and engage public support for our approach. (Include organizational structure here).

Bvumbwe Agricultural Research Station (BARS). Is the second largest agricultural research station of the ten research stations under the Department of Agricultural Research Services (DARS) within the Ministry of Agriculture, Irigation and Water Development (MoAIWD) in Malawi. One of BARS mandate is to conduct research related activities in post-harvest management of crops, and the research problems are identified by farmers themselves which are channelled through extension departments both public and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs). Some of the research areas involved include development of technologies such as storage structures, botanical storage insecticides, synthetic storage insecticides, biological agents just to mention a few. Up on development of the technologies, they are cleared by the

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Agricultural Technology Clearing Committee. This is followed by training of extension staff on the developed technologies who take them to the smallholder farmers as beneficiaries.

The organisational structure and the team proposed for the implementation of the action (by function: there is no need to include the names of individuals).

Organisational Structure of applicant Institution

College of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences

Central Admnistration- Registry, Finance and Provost

Institute of Agriculture School of Agriculture School of Veternary medicine

Three research centres: Forest and Horticultural Crops Research Institute, Soil and Irrigation Research Centre, Livestock and Poultry Research Centre

- Research Team is made up of 2 Agricultural field pests Entomologists, 2 stored product pests entomologists, 2 Socio-economists, 1 Agronomist, 1 Soil Scientist, 1 Chemical Ecologist,

The main means proposed for the implementation of the action (equipment, materials, and supplies to be acquired or rented)The project funds will support the purchase of the needed equipments, materials and supplies. The college will also support the successful execution of the project with the existing infrucstructure, and technical expertise.

The attitudes of all stakeholders towards the action in general and the activities in particular; the planned activities in order to ensure the visibility of the action and the EU funding. All the partners have shown commitment and contributed to the preparation of the action through the support of Platform for African European Partnership for Agricultural Research for Development (PAEPARD).We endeavour to strictly follow the UK guidelines in the financial expenditures and procurement policy on project activities.

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2.2.3 Duration and indicative action plan for implementing the action (max 4 pages)

The duration of the action will be <36> months.

Applicants should not indicate a specific start up date for the implementation of the action but simply show "month 1", "month 2", etc.

Applicants are recommended to base the estimated duration for each activity and total period on the most probable duration and not on the shortest possible duration by taking into consideration all relevant factors that may affect the implementation timetable.

The activities stated in the action plan should correspond to the activities described in detail in Section 2.2.1 The implementing body shall be either the applicant or any of the partners, associates or subcontractors. Any months or interim periods without activities must be included in the action plan and count toward the calculation of the total estimated duration of the action.The action plan for the first 12 months of implementation should be sufficiently detailed to give an overview of the preparation and implementation of each activity. The action plan for each of the subsequent years may be more general and should only list the main activities foreseen for those years. To this end, it shall be divided into six-month interim periods (NB: A more detailed action plan for each subsequent year will have to be submitted before receipt of new pre-financing payments, pursuant to Article 2.1 of the General Conditions of the grant contract).

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The action plan will be drawn up using the following format:

Year 1

Semester 1 Semester 2

Activity 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Implementing body

Preparation and Execution of Activity 1: Develop technologies to reduce maize grain losses in the field before storage

1.1.Mobilization and sensitization of farmers

CU, PFAG, ABOFAP

1.2 Baseline/Diagnostic Study UoG, BARS, CU

1.3 Field sampling and monitoring of insect pests of maize UoG, BARS,

CU1.4 Identify and field test host-plant attractants for maize field pest control UoG, BARS,

JKI1.4.1 Laboratory studies to identify attractants JKI, UoG,

BARS

1.4.2 Greenhouse studies to determine the performance of the attractants in a controlled environment

UoG, BARS

1.5. Identify and field test pheromones attractants for control of maize post-harvest insect pests

UoG, BARS

1.5.1 Pheromone collection from insects of interest UoG, BARS

1.5.2 Identification of active compounds by GC-EAD and GC-MS UoG, BARS,

JKI

1.5.3 Confirmation of biological activity of identified GC-EAD active compounds in a screehouse

UoG, BARS

1.6 Field trials on trap crop technology to manage insect pests UoG, BARS

1.6.1 Field studies on the use of trap crops for managing insect pests of maize UoG, BARS,

1.7.Studies to determine optimum time of harvesting of different maize varieties

UoG, BARS

1.8. Field trials to manage maize insect pests through crop managent practices UoG, BARS

1.8.1 Assessing tolerance of maize varieties to insect pests UoG, BARS

1.8.2 Determination of optimum time of planting maize to reduce maize pest UoG, BARS

1.8.3 Determination of optimum time of harvesting different maize varieties for reducing maize pest

UoG, BARS

1.8.4 Determination of optimum time of weeding to reduce maize grain losses due to insect pests

UoG, BARS

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Execution of Activity 2: Developing and evaluating sustainable storage technologies

2.1. Evaluate the effectiveness of the triple layer hermetically storage bags and 3 other storage methods

UoG, JKI

2.2. Determination of optimal and critical moisture, temperature and other external conditions for using biodegradable liners for hermetically triple layers bags

UoG, JKI

2.3. Testing of the gas permeability of the various plastic liners at various degree of biodegradability

UoG, JKI


UoG, JKI

2.2. Determination of optimal and critical moisture, temperature, infestation rate and other conditions for using biodegradable liners for hermetically triple layers bags

UoG, JKI

Year 2:


Activity 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Implementing body

Execution of Activity 1 continues 2: Developing and evaluating sustainable storage technologies1.3.3 Conduct field test to assess the effectiveness of the attractants

UoG, BARS

1.4.4 Field evaluation of promising compounds and blends

UoG, BARS

1.4.5 Validating of field testing of active compounds

UoG, BARS

1.5.2 Evaluation of trap crops technology UoG, BARS

1.5.3 Development of manuals for best practices

UoG, BARS

1.6. Field trials to manage maize insect pests through crop managent practices

UoG, BARS

1.6.1 Assessing tolerance of maize varieties to insect pests

UoG, BARS

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1.6.4.2 Determination of optimum time of planting maize to reduce maize pest

UoG, BARS

1.6.4.3 Determination of optimum time of harvesting differet maize varieties for reducing maize pest

UoG, BARS

1.6.4.4 Determination of optimum time of weeding to reduce maize grain losses due to insect pests

UoG, BARS


UoG, JKI, BARS

2.2. Determination of optimal and critical moisture, temperature and other conditions for using biodegradable liners for hermetically triple layers bags for stored product

UoG, JKI, BARS

2.3. Testing of the gas permeability of the various plastic liners at various degree of biodegradability

UoG, JKI, BARS

Execution of Activity 3: Transfer sustainable storage technologies to farmers

3.1.Establish distribution networks for storage bags

CU, ABOFAP, PFAG, BARS

3.2.Development of training materials for farmer training on hermetic storage bags

CU,

3.3. Train farmers on the use of hermetic storage bags

CU

3.5.Evaluate socio-economic drivers of adoption of post-harvest technologies among small-holder farmers

CU, UoG

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3.6.Training farmers on improved storage pest and disease management for quality grain production

CU

3.7. Training of farmers on proper grain handling techniques

CU, ABOFAP

3.8.Linking farmers/groups to institutional buyers and remunerative markets

CU

Etc.

Year 3:


Activity 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Implementing body

Execution of Activity 4: Establish the cost effectiveness of production and use of hermetic bags

Local partner 2

4.1.Assess profitability of production and distribution of hermetic bags to smallholder farmers

CU, UoG, BARS

4.2. Assess the marginal benefit for storage of grains using hermetic bags compared to current farmer practices

CU, UoG, BARS

4.3. Develop effective communication and promotion strategy for linkage to institutional grain buyers

CU, UoG, BARS

Etc.

2.2.4 Sustainability of the action (max 3 pages) Provide all information requested below: Describe the expected impact of the action with quantified data where possible, at technical,

economic, social, and policy levels (will it lead to improved legislation, codes of conduct, methods, etc.?).

Commercial maize storage companies, small-holder maize farmers, farmer-based organisations, hermetic storage bag manufacturers, Researchers, Agricultural Extension Agents, Institutional maize buyers, seed companies, grain and feed processors, development and relief NGOs are among the final beneficiaries of the technology

Expected Impacts Food security and income of about 1 million small-holder maize farmers in Ghana and Malawi will be

increased Reduce post-harvest maize losses, due to storage pests and diseases, by 20% of baseline levels

among small-holder grain farmers in Ghana and Malawi by 2015

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Reduction in the use of chemicals for preserving maize grain by small-holder maize farmers by 50% Reduction in the development of hazardous toxins in the environment by 20% Reduction in the menace of plastic waste from storage bags on the environment by about 50%. The capacities of FBOs built in sustainable storage of maize grain The capacities of Scientists in Ghana and Malawi strengthenedEstablishment of network among

scientists, civil societies and the private sector

Describe a dissemination plan and the possibilities for replication and extension of the action outcomes (multiplier effects), clearly indicating any foreseen dissemination channel.

Provide a detailed risk analysis and contingency plan. This should include a list of risks associated for each proposed action, accompanied by relevant mitigation measures. A good risk analysis will include a range of risk types including physical, environmental, political, economic and social risks.

Describe the main preconditions and assumptions during and after the implementation phase.

Explain how sustainability will be secured after completion of the action. This may include aspects of necessary follow-up activities, built-in strategies, ownership, communication plan, etc. In so doing so, make a distinction between the following 3 dimensions of sustainability:

a. Financial sustainability: financing of follow-up activities, sources of revenue for covering all future operating and maintenance costs, etc;

b. Institutional sustainability: including structures that would allow the results of the action to continue to be in place after the end of the action, capacity building, agreements and local "ownership" of action outcomes;

c. Policy level sustainability: where applicable) including the structural impact of (improved legislation, consistency with existing framework/s, codes of conduct, methods, etc.). Evolving general public attitudes

d. Environmental sustainability (what impact will the action have on the environment – have conditions put in place to avoid negative effects on natural resources on which the action depends and on the broader natural environment)

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Dissemination Plan

Stakeholder Group

Kind of information

Strategy Institutions(Partners)

Farmers Sustainable storage technologies for storing maize grain;Technologies for reducing maize grain loss before storage

Farmer handbooks Factsheets/Posters Participatory field trials Visits and tours Community fora Farmer field fora Mass media

Farmer groups NGOs FBOs

Researchers Scientific knowledge in sustainable technologies for reducing maize grain losses

Project reports Journal articles Workshop proceedings

Universities National Research

Institutions CGIAR Institutions

Policy makers Sustainable Post-harvest management technologies

Annual reports Policy Briefs Seminars

Ministries of Agriculture

Ministries of Science and Technology

NGOs Research Outputs

Production/Training guides Factsheets/ folders/Posters Seminars

NGOs Ministries of

Agriculture

Extensionists(field extension workers)

Research outputs

Production/Training guides Factsheets/ folders/Posters Seminars/Workshops Participatory Field Trials

Ministries of Agriculture

NGOs FBOs

Risk Analysis

Activity Associated Risk Mitigation measures

1. Develop technologies to reduce maize grain losses in the field before storage

Stable political and social environment in the participating countries; absence of natural disasters; timely release of project funds.

Institute can prefinance some aspects when the release of funds is delayed

2. Developing and evaluating sustainable storage technologies

Stable political and social environment in the participating countries; absence of natural disasters; timely release of project funds

3. Transfer sustainable storage technologies to farmers

Stable political and social environment in the participating countries; absence of natural disasters; timely release of project funds

4. Establish the cost effectiveness of production

Stable political and social environment in the participating

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and use of hermetic bags countries; absence of natural disasters; timely release of project funds

Preconditions and Assumptions

During Project Implementation Phase After Project Implementation Phase

Timely release of project funds Stable political environment in the participating countries

Absence of natural disasters (e.g. floods, fire)

Stable political environment in the sub-Region

Availability of Laboratory equipment Favourable agricultural policies in Ghana and Malawi

Continuous and healthy collaboration among partners

Farmers’ ability to access credit, inputs, ready markets etc

Continuous availability of resources (human, material and financial) Technology remains available and

affordable

Sustained availability of institutional market

Securing sustainability

Financial Institutional Policy level Environmental

Increase in income of participating and other farmers through spread of technology will safeguard long-term financial sustainability of the farmers

Since Concern Universal is already operating in the area; they willcontinue to monitor the progress of work after the action

This will be ensured through strengthening of the partnership during and after the project. Mechanisms to be put in place to strengthen the partnership are: (i) periodic meetings of key stakeholders implementing the actions to take stock and monitor activities to adapt the strategies implemented. (ii) Capacity building of farmers and FBOs of the project to ensure community ownership of the technologies developed.

The project will be implemented based on the existing agricultural and financial policies in Ghana and Malawi

The technologies developed will reduce the impact of climate change as reduction in losses of grain will reduce the necessity to clear more land to increase production. Reduction in losses will also mean optimization of production inputs. Since the technologies to be promoted will reduce the need for use of chemicals in grain storage, the release of hazardous chemicals into the environment will be reduced.

Monitoring and evaluation plan

Conduct half yearly field visits and evaluations by scientists and farmers Mid-term review and results presented in a workshop for farmers and participating organisations End of project review and results presented in a workshop for farmers and participating

organisations Evaluation of quarterly, progress (bi-annual), annual reports and training manuals

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Undertake ex-post impact assessments. Number of farmers, extension agents, graduate students trained Results of economic analysis of post-harvest technologies Multi-institutional steering committee meetings (twice a year)

2.2.5 Logical Framework

Please fill in Annex C13 to the Guidelines for applicants.

ATTACHED (see Annex C)

APPLICANT'S EXPERIENCE OF SIMILAR ACTIONS

Maximum 1 page per action. Please provide a detailed description of actions managed by your organisation over the past three years.

This information will be used to assess whether you have sufficient and stable experience of managing actions in the same sector and of a comparable scale to the one for which a grant is being requested.

Project title: Convergence of Sciences-Strengthning Innovation Systems In West Africa

Sector (see Section 3.2.2 of Section 3):

13 Explanations can be found at the following address: http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/reports//index_en.pdfPage 33 of 66

http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/reports//index_en.pdf


Cost of the action (EUR)

lead manager or partner

Donors to the action (name)14

Amount contributed (by donor)

Dates (from dd/mm/yyyy to dd/mm/yyyy)

…Accra, Ghana

…4.5 million … College of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences, University of Ghana

… Directorate General for International Cooperation (DGIS) of the Netherland Government

…4.5 million 01-092008 to 01-09-2013

Objectives and results of the action

The purpose of the Convergence of Sciences (CoS-SIS) project is to carry out inter-disciplinary policy experiments with a view to elaborate, apply and assess an approach to sustainable rural poverty alleviation and food security, based on Innovation System (IS) thinking. This project works with partners in Benin, Ghana and Mali to experiment with and learn about changing institutional conditions. The Programme works with three priority domains in each country:

Benin: oil palm, cotton and integrated water management; Ghana: oil palm, cocoa and food security (in the North); Mali: water management, integration of agriculture and animal

production and Karité (Shea nut).Each domain has a Domain Advisory Group comprising a post-doc (Research Associate or RA), a PhD researcher, and social and natural science academic supervisors, which engages in multi-stakeholder experiments with creating opportunities for smallholders. In each country, a Programme Management Team (PMT) of key national decision makers has final responsibility. CoS-SIS is a partnership of the Université d’Abomey à Calavi in Cotonou, The University of Ghana in Legon, the Institut de Formation en Recherche Appliquée/Institut Polytechnique Rurale (IFRA/IPR) in Katibougou, and Wageningen University, KIT and Agriterra. See www.cos-sis.org

14 If the Donor is the European Union or an EU Member State, please specify the EU budget line, EDF or EU Member State.

Page 34 of 66

http://www.cos-sis.org/

Project title: Leventis Foundation Farmers Training

Programme

Sector (see Section 3.2.2 of Section 3):


Cost of the action (EUR)

lead manager or partner

Donors to the action (name)15

Amount contributed (by donor)

Dates (from dd/mm/yyyy to dd/mm/yyyy)

…Accra, Ghana

…669,322.50 …University of Ghana

…Leventis Foundation

…503,250.00 01-07-2009 to 01-07-2014

Objectives and results of the action

The LEVENTIS Foundation Farmers Training Programme (LFFTP) was established in 1989/90 by Leventis Foundation, London in collaboration with the University of Ghana to train and equip young Ghanaian farmers with the requisite knowledge and skills to enable them improve their farm businesses. The joint project is sponsored by The LEVENTIS Foundation, London and implemented by the Institute of Agricultural Research of the College of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences, University of Ghana.The objective of the programme is

To provide young men and women with the requisite knowledge and skills required to undertake modern agricultural practices and

Encourage graduand trainee farmers to go back to practice in their farm business enterprises upon completion.

To date nearly 1,000 Ghanaian young farmers across the country have benefited from the training.

6

15 If the Donor is the European Union or an EU Member State, please specify the EU budget line, EDF or EU Member State.

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7 THE APPLICANT

EuropeAid ID number16 (Optional)

Name of the organisation

IDENTITY

Information requested under this point need only be given in cases where there have been modifications or additions as compared to the information given in the Concept note form.

The applicant's contact details for the purpose of this action:


Abbreviation

Registration Number (or equivalent)

Date of Registration

Place of Registration

Official address of Registration

Country of Registration18/ Nationality 19

E-mail address of the Organisation

Telephone number: Country code + city code + number

Fax number: Country code + city code + number

Website of the Organisation

Any change in the addresses, phone numbers, fax numbers and in particular e-mail, must be notified in writing to the Contracting Authority. The Contracting Authority will not be held responsible in case it cannot contact an applicant.

16 This number is available to an organisation which registers its data in PADOR. For more information and to register, please visit http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/work/onlineservices/pador/index_en.htm

17 If the applicant has already signed a contract with the European Commission18 For organisations. [If not in one of the countries listed in Section 2.1.1 of the Guidelines, please justify its location].19 For individuals. [If not in one of the countries listed in Section 2.1.1 of the Guidelines, please justify its location].

Page 36 of 66

PROFILE

Legal status

Profit-Making □ Yes□No

NGO □ Yes□ No

Value based20 □ Political□ Religious□ Humanistic□ Neutral

Is your organisation linked with another entity?

□ Yes, parent entity: (please specify its EuropeAid ID:…………………………)□ Yes, controlled entity(ies)□ Yes, family organization / network entity21

□ No, independent

7.1.1. Category

Category22 Public□ Public Administration□ Decentralised representatives of Sovereign States□ International Organisation□ Judicial Institution□ Local Authority□ Implementation Agency□ University/Education□ Research Institute□ Think Tank□ Foundation□ Association□ Media□ Network/Federation□ Professional and/or Industrial Organisation□ Trade Union□ Cultural Organisation□ Commercial Organisation

Private

Implementation Agency University/Education Research Institute Think Tank Foundation Association Media Network/Federation Professional and/or Industrial Organisation Trade Union Cultural Organisation Commercial Organisation Other Non State Actor

7.1.2. Sector(s)23

□ 11 Education□ 111 Education, level unspecified□ 11110 Education Policy & Admin. Management□ 11120 Education Facilities And Training□ 11130 Teacher Training□ 11182 Educational Research□ 112 Basic education□ 11220 Primary Education□ 31166 Agricultural extension□ 31181 Agricultural Education/Training

20 Please choose only one set of values.

21 E.g. confederation / federation /Alliance.22 Please specify 1) the Sector to which your organisation belongs, as defined in its statutes (or equivalent document):

Public (established and/or funded by a public body) OR Private (established and/or funded by a private entity); 2) in the appropriate column, the Category to which your organisation belongs (ONE CHOICE ONLY).

23 Please tick the box for each sector your organisation has been active in the past 7 years. The sectors come from the DAC list set up by the OECD

Page 37 of 66

□ 31182 Agricultural Research□ 31191 Agricultural services□ 31192 Plant and post-harvest protection and pest control

7.1.3. Target group(s)

□ Community Based Organisation(s)□ Consumers□ Educational organisations (universities)□ Non Governmental Organisations□ Research organisations/Researchers□ Students□ Women□ Other (please specify): Small-holder farmers……………………………..

Page 38 of 66

CAPACITY TO MANAGE AND IMPLEMENT ACTIONS

7.1.4. Experience by sector

SectorYear(s) of Experience

Experience in the past 7 years

Number of Projects in the past 7 years

Estimated Amount(in thousand Euros) in the past 7 years

□ Less than 1□ 1 to 3 years□ 4 to 7 years

□ 7 years +

□ Less than 1 year□ 1 to 3 years□ 4 to 7 years□ 7 years +

□ 1 to 5□ 6 to 10□ 11 to 20□ 21 to 50□ 51 to 200

□ Less than 1□ 1 to 5□ 5 to 20□ 20 to 50□ 50 to 100□ 100 to 300□ 300 to 1.000□ 1000+□ Unknown

□ Less than 1□ 1 to 3 years□ 4 to 7 years□ 7 years +


□ 1 to 5□ 6 to 10□ 11 to 20□ 21 to 50□ 51 to 200


□ Less than 1□ 1 to 3 years□ 4 to 7 years□ 7 years +


□ 1 to 5□ 6 to 10□ 11 to 20□ 21 to 50□ 51 to 200


7.1.5. Experience by geographical area

By Geographical area (country or region) Year(s) of

Experience

Number of Projects in this geographical area in the past 7 years

Estimated Amount(in thousand Euros) invested in this geographical area in the past 7 years

Indicative list of regions

Europe EU Europe non-EU Eastern Europe Central America South America South-East Asia North-East Asia South Asia Central Asia Mediterranean Gulf Countries Eastern Africa Central Africa Western Africa Southern Africa Indian Ocean Caribbean Pacific


□ 1 to 5□ 6 to 10□ 11 to 20□ 21 to 50□ 51 to 200



□ 1 to 5□ 6 to 10□ 11 to 20□ 21 to 50□ 51 to 200

□ Less than 1□ 1 to 5□ 5 to 20□ 20 to 50□ 50 to 100□ 100 to 300□ 300 to 1.000□ 1000+

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□ Unknown□ Less than 1 year□ 1 to 3 years□ 4 to 7 years□ 7 years +

□ 1 to 5□ 6 to 10□ 11 to 20□ 21 to 50□ 51 to 200


Cross-reference of experience by Sector and by Geographical area:

Sector(s)(as selected in 3.2.2)

Geographical area(s) (country or region, as identified previously)

7.1.6. Resources

Financial data

Please provide the following information, if applicable, on the basis of the profit and loss account and balance sheet of your organisation, amounts in thousand Euros

Year Turnover or equivalent

Net earnings or equivalent

Total balance sheet or budget

Shareholders’ equity or equivalent

Medium and long-term debt

Short-term debt (<1 year)

N24

N-1

N-2

24 N = previous financial year.Page 40 of 66

Financing Source(s) Please tick the source(s) of the revenues of your organisation and specify the additional information

requested

Year Source Percentage (total for a given year must be equal to 100%)

Number of fee-paying members (only for source = Member's fees)

N □ EU N/AN □ Member States Public Bodies N/AN □ Third Countries Public Bodies N/AN □ United Nations N/AN □ Other International Organisation(s) N/AN □ Private Sector N/AN □ Member's feesN □ Other (please specify): …………… N/AN Total 100% N/A

Year Source Percentage (total for a given year must be equal to 100%)

Number of fee-paying members (only for source = Member's fees)

N – 1 □ EU N/AN – 1 □ Member States Public Bodies N/AN – 1 □ Third Countries Public Bodies N/AN – 1 □ United Nations N/AN – 1 □ Other International Organisation(s) N/AN – 1 □ Private Sector N/AN – 1 □ Member's feesN – 1 □ Other (please specify): ………… N/AN – 1 Total 100% N/AN – 2 □ EU N/AN – 2 □ Member States Public Bodies N/AN – 2 □ Third Countries Public Bodies N/AN – 2 □ United Nations N/AN – 2 □ Other International Organisation(s) N/AN – 2 □ Private Sector N/AN – 2 □ Member's feesN – 2 □ Other (please specify): ………… N/AN – 2 Total 100% N/A

Please provide the references of the external audit report established by an approved auditor for the last financial year available. This obligation does not apply to international organisations nor to public bodies.

Year Name of approved auditor Period of validity

N From dd/mm/yyyy to dd/mm/yyyy

N – 1 From dd/mm/yyyy to dd/mm/yyyy

N – 2 From dd/mm/yyyy to dd/mm/yyyy

Page 41 of 66

Number of staff (full-time equivalent) please tick one option for each type of staff

Type of staff Paid Unpaid

HQ Staff: recruited and based in Headquarters (located in Developed Country)

□ < 5

□ < 10

□ > 10 and < 50

□ > 50 and < 100

□ > 100

□ N/A

□ < 5

□ < 10

□ > 10 and < 50

□ > 50 and < 100

□ > 100

□ N/A

Expat Staff: recruited in Headquarters (located in Developed Country) and based in Developing Country

□ < 5

□ < 10

□ > 10 and < 50

□ > 50 and < 100

□ > 100

□ N/A

□ < 5

□ < 10

□ > 10 and < 50

□ > 50 and < 100

□ > 100

□ N/A

Local staff: recruited and based in Developing Country

□ < 5

□ < 10

□ > 10 and < 50

□ > 50 and < 100

□ > 100

□ N/A

□ < 5

□ < 10

□ > 10 and < 50

□ > 50 and < 100

□ > 100

□ N/A

LIST OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD/COMMITTEE OF YOUR ORGANISATION

Name Profession FunctionCountry of Nationality

On the board since

Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta Banker Chairman Ghana 2010

Mr. John Awuni Bussiness man Member Ghana 2010

Dr. Elsie Kaufmann Lecturer University council representative, Member

Ghana 2010

Prof. S. K. Offie Professor, College Provost,

Member Ghana 2010

Mr. P. B. Yarquah College Registrar

member Ghana 2010

Dr. A. B. Salifu Director-General, CSIR

Member Ghana 2010

Prof. Naa Ayikailey Adamafio

Professor University Council representative,

Ghana 2010

Page 42 of 66

AKOTSCL, 12/07/13,

Administrators

Name Profession FunctionCountry of Nationality

On the board since

Member

Mr. Seth A. Botchway

Finance Officer, MoFEP

Member Ghana 2010

Prof. E. Owusu-Bennoah

Professor Member Ghana 2010

Mr. Kwaku Nicol Chief Director, Mofa

Member Ghana 2010

Mr. Davies N. Korboe

Farmer Member Ghana 2010

Dr. P. Y. Kuranchie Banker Member Ghana 2010

Dr. Angelina Danquah

Lecturer Member Ghana 2010

Mrs. Norah A. Sowah

College Finance Officer

Member Ghana 2010

Prof. M. Duwiejua Professor Member Ghana 2010

8

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9 PARTNERS OF THE APPLICANT PARTICIPATING IN THE ACTION

DESCRIPTION OF THE PARTNERS

This section must be completed for each partner organisation within the meaning of Section 2.1.2 of the Guidelines for Applicants. Any associates as defined in the same section need not be mentioned. You must make as many copies of this table as necessary to create entries for more partners.

Partner 1

EuropeAid ID number25 GB-2007-CRX-2711165274

Full legal name Concern Universal

Date of Registration 1976

Place of Registration United Kingdom

Legal status26 Non Governmental Organization

Official address of Registration27

21 King Street, Hereford, HR4 9BX United Kingdom


British

Contact person Matthew Lake

Telephone number: country code + city code + number

+441432355111

Fax number: country code + city code + number

+44 870 705 9578

E-mail address [email protected]

Number of employees 7 (in Ghana)

Other relevant resourcesOffice space, vehicles, long standing relationship and extensive network with farmer organizations in Ghana.

Experience of similar actions, in relation to the role in the implementation of the proposed action

Concern Universal has been working with smallholder farmers in Ghana for more than 12 years in the Brong Ahafo, Upper West and Northern Regions. CU is adopts community led participatory approaches to building the capacity of smallholder farmers to adopt technologies and practices which will improve their productivity and consequently improve their livelihoods.

In a commitment to make research work for smallholder farmers, CU Ghana has been collaborating with research institutions such as the University of Ghana, to bring the needs of the farmers to the research agenda, facilitate the participation of farmers in research activities and also disseminate appropriate technologies

In collaboration with the University of Ghana and FARA, CU is currently implementing a research for development project which is aimed at adapting the triple layer hermetic bags, with bio-

25 This number is available to an organisation which registers its data in PADOR. For more information and to register, please visit http://ec.europa.eu/work/europeaid/onlineservices/pador/index_en.htm.

26 E.g. non profit making, governmental body, international organisation.27 If not in one of the countries listed in Section 2.1.1 of the Guidelines, please justify its location.28 For organisations29 For individuals

Page 44 of 66

AKOTSCL, 12/07/13,

Please partners whould be asked to complete this section

mailto:[email protected]

degradable liners, for storing maize among small holder farmers in Ghana. CU’s role in this project include: Coordination of overall project implementation Facilitating identification and selection of site and participants in

field research Facilitating linkages among all other relevant stakeholders e.g

MOFA, private sector supplier of hermitic bags. Coordinate the transfer and accountability of funds to various

stakeholders Monitoring and reporting

In addition, Concern Universal Ghana is also currently implementing a three-year AGRA funded project aimed at improving access to post harvest services and markets for smallholder farmers in the Brong Ahafo region, targeting 10,000 maize farmers. CU is leading this project and working to promote bring smallholder utilization of appropriate post harvest technology to improve household food security and incomes.

Furthermore CU Ghana is in the third year of promoting the use of small-scale drip irrigation technology among smallholder vegetable farmers in the Brong Ahafo region of Ghana, working with 150, farmers in a project funded by the Irish Aid in Abuja.

In other countries in Africa, CU is actively implementing agricultural research for development actions including the DfID funded DLISP project in the Dedza District, of Malawi where participatory extension system have been developed and introduced

While new and improved agricultural practices have also been introduced to target 10,000 households.

History of cooperation with the applicant

Concern Universal Ghana has been collaborating with the University of Ghana over the past two years to facilitate participatory agricultural research for development, focusing on environmentally sustainable and cost effective post harvest technologies for controlling insect grain pest among smallholder farmers in the Brong Ahafo and Upper West Regions of Ghana.

Role and involvement in preparing the proposed action

Concern Universal has played an active and leading role in the preparing the action including needs assessment, coordinating the consortium of partners and the actual preparation of the action. Concern Universal activity participated in the write-shop organized by FARA to develop the action.

Role and involvement in implementing the proposed action

Concern Universal will lead the research-development interface of the action, ensure mobilization and participation of target beneficiaries, in work package 1 and 2 and also lead on most of activities in work package 3 focusing on dissemination of dissemination and adoption of technologies.

Partner 2

Page 45 of 66

EuropeAid ID number30 Not registered

Full legal name Bvumbwe Agricultural Research Station

Date of Registration 1940s

Place of Registration Limbe, Malawi

Legal status31 Government Research Station


P. O. Box 5748, Limbe


Malawi

Contact person Thomson Chilanga/Charles Diverson Singano


(265) 471 207/334/527 or 9999557618 or 999307474


(265) 471 323

E-mail address [email protected] or [email protected]

Number of employees 350

Other relevant resources Laboratories, Office buildings, equipment, Government vehicles and staff


The research station has been operational for over 70 years conducting various research activities which include postharvest handling of crops, varietal development and development of production practices


Bvumbwe has worked with FARA during the implementation of the SSA-CP project on vegetable crops for a period of 4 years


Fully involved in development and designing of the proposed activities


Country project contact persons and leader of the implementation team for Malawi



Page 46 of 66


Partner 3

EuropeAid ID number35 999494015 (PIC)

Full legal name Julius Kühn-Instiut, Federal Research Centre on Cultivated Plants

Date of Registration 1 January 2008

Place of Registration Quedlinburg, Germany

Legal status36 Non-profit governmental research institute


Julius Kühn-Institut (JKI)Federal Research Centre for Cultivated Plants Erwin-Baur-Str. 27D-06484 Quedlinburg


Germany/German

Contact person Cornel Adler


+49-30-83042502


+49-30-83042503


Number of employees 1200 (all JKI)

Other relevant resources


Have been working and supervising students in the area of chemical ecology and managing projects for Germans and other International Organisations.


Research contacts with Univ. Ghana through A.v.Humboldt scholarship


Developed the objectives and methodologies for extraction of insect/plant volatiles, identication and synthesis


Will implement the aspects on the plant and insect volatiles extraction, identification and synthesis.



Page 47 of 66

Important: This application form must be accompanied by a signed and dated partnership statement from each partner, in accordance with the model provided.

Page 48 of 66

AKOTSCL, 12/07/13,

Very important to include

PARTNERSHIP STATEMENT

A partnership is a relationship of substance between two or more organisations involving shared responsibilities in undertaking the action funded by the African Union Commission (Contracting Authority). To ensure that the action runs smoothly, the Contracting Authority requires all partners to acknowledge this by agreeing to the principles of good partnership practice set out below.

1. All partners must have read the application form and understood what their role in the action will be before the application is submitted to the Contracting Authority.

2. All partners must have read the standard grant contract and understood what their respective obligations under the contract will be if the grant is awarded. They authorise the lead applicant to sign the contract with the Contracting Authority and represent them in all dealings with the Contracting Authority in the context of the action's implementation.

3. The applicant must consult with its partners regularly and keep them fully informed of the progress of the action.

4. All partners must receive copies of the reports - narrative and financial - made to the Contracting Authority.

5. Proposals for substantial changes to the action (e.g. activities, partners, etc.) should be agreed by the partners before being submitted to the Contracting Authority. Where no such agreement can be reached, the applicant must indicate this when submitting changes for approval to the Contracting Authority.

6. Where the Beneficiary does not have its headquarters in the country where the action is implemented, the partners must agree before the end of the action, on an equitable distribution of equipment, vehicles and supplies for the action purchased with the EU grant among local partners or the final beneficiaries of the action.

I have read and approved the contents of the proposal submitted to the Contracting Authority. I undertake to comply with the principles of good partnership practice.

Name:

Organisation:

Position:

Signature:

Date and place:

Page 49 of 66

10 ASSOCIATES OF THE APPLICANT PARTICIPATING IN THE ACTION

This section must be completed for each associated organisation within the meaning of Section 2.1.2 of the Guidelines for Applicants. You must make as many copies of this table as necessary to create entries for more associates.

Associate 1

Full legal name Peasant farmers Association of Ghana

EuropeAid ID number40

Country of Registration Ghana

Legal status41 Non-profit making NGO: Company Limited By Guarantee

Official address C/O PMB 56, KIA Accra, Ghana

Contact person Victoria Adongo

Telephone number: country code + city code + number +233-244657451



Number of employees 150 farm organisations


Experience of similar actions, in relation to role in the implementation of the proposed action

PFAG has been involved in promoting sustainable agriculture; farmer to farmer extension in Ghana for the past 10 years. Currently working with 150 different Farmer Organisations country wide and currently working with FAO/MOFA cowpea project in the Northern and Upper East Regions. The Association is working with some of its members on the soya bean value chain in the Northern Region. PFAG is also involved in evidenced based agricultural policy advocacy (through research).

History of cooperation with the applicant Have been working with the applicant on some project collaboration with Concern Universal for the past three years


Have played a key role in developing the proposal making sure farmer needs have been addressed


PFAG will act as link to farmers. Support mobilisation of farmers

40 This number is available to an organisation which registers its data in PADOR. For more information and to register, please visit http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/work/onlineservices/pador/index_en.htm.

41 E.g. non profit making, governmental body, international organisation.Page 50 of 66


• Participate in field level testing of the innovation

• Participate in the dissemination of the technology among other farmers

Associate 2

Full legal name Abrono Organic Farming Project ( ABOFAP)


Country of Registration Ghana

Legal status43 ABOFAP is non-profit making organization registered with Registrar General Department, Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Social Welfare and District Assemblies

Official address P. O. Box 360, Techiman, Brong-Ahafo

Contact person Nana Kwaw Adams

Telephone number: country code + city code + number +233-244767695






Successfully implemented a livelihoods and environment project 2008 – 2009 in partnership with Concern Universal.

*On-going implementation of Brong Ahafo Rural Livelihoods Enhancement project (BARLEP) May 2010 to June 2012 in partnership with Concern Universal.

*Work as a team in successful implementation of the sustainable farming system (FASE) with CARE International from 2004 to 2008.

*Currently implementing Local Extension Services for Agricultural Development (LEAD) in partnership




with CARE International 2009-2014

History of cooperation with the applicant Have been working with the applicant through Concern Universal.


Have been keenly involved in developing this proposal taking into consideration the farmers needs assessments.


Will help link farmers to adopt and use the developed technologies

Associate 3

Full legal name Chinthebe Farmers Group


Country of Registration Malawi

Legal status45 Farmer based Organization in Malawi

Official address C/o Bvumbwe Agricultural Research Station, P. O. Box 5748, Malawi

Contact person Charles Singano







Chinthebe Farmers group has been promoting sustainable crop production in Malawi over the last fifteen years. Our group works actively with the Farm Income Diversification Programme(FIDP), Farm Concern International and other organizations that promote crop production

History of cooperation with the applicant Have been collaborating with them through Concern Universal.


Was involved in identifying farmers needs that need solution throughthe development research interventions.


Will link farmers to adopt the technologies developed




11 CHECKLIST FOR THE FULL APPLICATION FORM

AFRICAN UNION RESEARCH GRANTS / HRST/ST/AURG/CALL2/2012 / EuropeAid/132-331/M/ACT/ACP/10TH EDF

ADMINISTRATIVE DATA To be filled in by the applicant

Name of the Applicant Institute of Agricultural Research, College of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences, University of Ghana

EuropeAid ID number

Nationality46/Country47 and date of registration

Ghanaian/ Ghana/ 1948


Legal status49 Govermental body

Partner 1 Name/EuropeAid ID number: Concern Universal

Nationality/Country of registration: UK/ Ghana

Legal status: Non-Governmental Organisation

Partner 2 Name/EuropeAid ID number: Bvumbwe Agricultural Research Station

Nationality/Country of registration: Malawian/ Malawi

Legal status: Govermental Research Institute

Partner 3

NB: Add as many rows as partners

Name/EuropeAid ID number: Julius Kühn-Instiut, Federal Research Centre on Cultivated Plants

Nationality/Country of registration: German/ Germany

Legal status: Non-profit Governmental Research Institute

46 For individuals.47 For organisations.48 If the applicant has already signed a contract with the European Commission.49 E.g. non profit making, governmental body, international organisation…

Page 53 of 66

BEFORE SENDING YOUR PROPOSAL, PLEASE CHECK THAT EACH OF THE FOLLOWING POINTS IS COMPLETE AND RESPECTS THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:

To be filled in by the applicant

Title of the Proposal: <indicate the title> Yes No

PART 1 (ADMINISTRATIVE)1. The correct grant application form, published for this call for proposals, has been used

2. The Declaration by the applicant has been filled in and has been signed

3. The proposal is typed and is in English or French. Where more than one language is allowed, the proposal is drafted in the language most commonly used by the target population in the country in which the action takes place.

4. One original and 2 copies are included

5. An electronic version of the proposal (CD-Rom) is enclosed

6. Each partner has completed and signed a partnership statement and the statements are included. [if partnership is not mandatory: <Please indicate “Not applicable” (NA) if you have no partner>]

7. The budget is presented in the format requested, is expressed in € and is enclosed

8. The logical framework has been completed and is enclosed

PART 2 (ELIGIBILITY)9. The duration of the action is between 12 months and 36 months (the minimum and maximum allowed)

10. The requested contribution is between 500,000.00 EURO and 750,000.00 EURO (the minimum and maximum allowed)

11. The requested contribution is between 50 % and 80% of the estimated total eligible costs (minimum and maximum percentage allowed)

12. If applicable, the requested contribution is equal or less than 80 % of the estimated total accepted costs (maximum percentage allowed)]

12

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13 DECLARATION BY THE APPLICANTThe applicant, represented by the undersigned, being the authorised signatory of the applicant, in the context of the present call for proposals, representing any partners in the proposed action, hereby declares that

the applicant has the sources of financing and professional competence and qualifications specified in Section 2 of the Guidelines for Applicants;

the applicant undertakes to comply with the obligations foreseen in the partnership statement of the grant application form and with the principles of good partnership practice;

the applicant is directly responsible for the preparation, management and implementation of the action with its partners, if any, and is not acting as an intermediary;

the applicant and its partners are not in any of the situations excluding them from participating in contracts which are listed in Section 2.3.3 of the Practical Guide to contract procedures for EU external actions (available from the following Internet address: http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/work/procedures/implementation/index_en.htm. Furthermore, it is recognised and accepted that if we participate in spite of being in any of these situations, we may be excluded from other procedures in accordance with Section 2.3.5 of the Practical Guide;

the applicant and each partner (if any) is in a position to deliver immediately, upon request, the supporting documents stipulated under Section 2.4 of the Guidelines for Applicants.;

the applicant and each partner (if any) are eligible in accordance with the criteria set out under Sections 2.1.1 and 2.1.2 of the Guidelines for Applicants;

if recommended to be awarded a grant, the applicant accepts the contractual conditions as laid down in the Standard Contract annexed to the Guidelines for Applicants (annex G);

the applicant and its partners are aware that, for the purposes of safeguarding the financial interests of the EU, their personal data may be transferred to internal audit services, to the European Court of Auditors, to the Financial Irregularities Panel or to the European Anti-Fraud Office.

The following grant applications have been submitted (or are about to be submitted) to the European Institutions, the European Development Fund and the EU Member States in the last 12 months:

<list only actions in the same field as this proposal>

The applicant is fully aware of the obligation to inform without delay the Contracting Authority to which this application is submitted if the same application for funding made to other European Commission departments or European Union institutions has been approved by them after the submission of this grant application.

Signed on behalf of the applicant

Name Professor Samuel Kwame Offei

Signature

Position Provost

Date 19-04-12

Page 55 of 66

http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/work/procedures/implementation/index_en.htm

14 ASSESSMENT GRID OF THE FULL APPLICATION FORM

(TO BE USED BY THE CONTRACTING AUTHORITY)

YES NOOPENING &ADMINISTRATIVE CHECK AND CONCEPT NOTE EVALUATION

1. The submission deadline has been respected2. The checklist of the Application form has been duly completedThe administrative verification has been conducted by:Date:DECISION:A. The Committee has decided to evaluate the Concept Note after having passed the Administrative check.B. The Committee has decided to recommend evaluating the full application formThe evaluation of the Concept Note has been conducted by:

Date: ]

EVALUATION OF THE FULL APPLICATION FORM

DECISION :

A. The Committee has recommended the proposal for Eligibility verification after having been provisionally selected within the top ranked scored proposals within the available financial envelope.

B. The Committee has recommended the proposal for Eligibility verification after having been put on the reserve list according to the top ranked scored proposals

The evaluation of the proposal has been conducted by:

Date:

ELIGIBILITY VERIFICATION

3. The checklist of the Application form has been duly completed.

4. The supporting documents listed hereunder, submitted according to the Guidelines (Section 2.4), satisfied all the eligibility criteria of the applicant and its partner(s) (if any)

a. The applicant's statutes

b. The statutes or articles of association of all partners

c. The applicant's external audit report (if applicable)

d. Copy of the applicant’s latest accounts.

The assessment of the eligibility has been conducted by:

Date:

DECISION :

The Committee has selected the proposal for funding after having verified its eligibility according to the criteria stipulated in the Guidelines for Applicants.

Page 56 of 66

APPENDIX B

Assessment of Storability of two maize varieties in a hermetic Triple Layer Biodegradable BagF .A. Ansah Department of Crop ScienceSchool of Agriculture, College of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences,University of Ghana, Legon

D. Obeng-Ofori, K. Afreh-Nuamah and J.P AnankwareAfrican Regional Postgraduate Programme in Insect Science (ARPPIS), University of Ghana, Legon.

F. A. Oluwole and A.A. AdekunleForum for Agricultural Research in Africa (FARA),Accra - Ghana

A.S. BuduDepartment of Nutrition and Food ScienceUniversity of Ghana

Page 57 of 66

Keywords: hermetic, biodegradable, storage, maize, polypropylene bagsAbstractStorage of maize is very important for food security, especially in developing countries, like Ghana. However, several abiotic and biotic factors cause considerable losses during its storage. Therefore, the work studied the efficacy of hermetic triple layer biodegradable bags (HTLBB) and polypropylene interwoven bags (PIB) to reduce losses in stored maize. Experiments were conducted in a small holder farmer storage crib and in a laboratory. A factorial combination of HTLBB, PIB and maize varieties, improved Obatanpa and local Denkye were used. The samples were stored for six months at an average temperature of 27oC and 58 % rh. The moisture content, hidden infestation, weight loss, germination capacity and colour were assessed. A significant increase in the moisture content of both varieties (12.4% - 15.4%) was found in HTLBB- stored samples probable due to airtight conditions and the respiratory activities of grains, while in PIB no significant differences were found (12.4% - 12.9%). Laboratory and field assessment of percentage germination and emergence was higher in Obatanpa than in Denkye. However, HTLBB-stored samples, kept 90% of germination capacity while in PIB-stored, a maximum of 60%. Weight losses were also lower in HTLBB-stored Obatanpa and Denkye at 7.4% and 3.8% than PIB-stored at 15.1% and 9% respectively, attributable to varietal type and hidden infestation. Colour changes were observed in both storage bags which were related to possible increase in carotenoid content during storage. As main conclusion, HTLBB has the potential to protect stored maize better than PIB without any chemical treatment; provided its moisture content is very low.INTRODUCTIONEfforts to improve maize production through plant breeding and improved management options have made remarkable progress in increasing yields during the past century (Cairns et al., 2012). However, with limited attention on storage of the grains, Ghana like other developing countries, experiences serious problems with availability of quality maize, which often arise from poor storage (Armah and Asante, 2006). This situation is most common among small holder farmers who produce the bulk of maize in Africa. The use of chemical treatment methods to control storage pests is effective but expensive for use by smallholder farmers. Besides, the incorrect applications of these chemicals pose health threats to both farmers and consumers, while promoting the development of resistant strains, making this method unsustainable and less affordable. On the other hand, the use of botanicals for control of insects is highly positive in terms of its microeconomic and environmental benefits. However, it has several limitations which includes, technical problems related to collection, processing and storage (Obeng-Ofori, 2008), in addition to the need toxicological and safety data for registration and use (Navarro, 2006). Therefore, there is need for storage technologies that are environmentally sustainable and suitable for small holder farmers’ use to maintain quality of grains in store. Hermetic storage in plastics, have proven to be successful in recent years (Villers et al., 2008; Jonfia-Essien WA et al., 2010; Anon, 2011; Navarro et al., 2012). But pollution from plastics poses threats to marine biodiversity, already at risk from overfishing, climate change and other forms of anthropogenic disturbance (Derraik, 2002). Owing to this, the research focused on assessing the effectiveness of biodegradable plastic bags in hermetic storage (Hermetic triple layer biodegradable bags - HTLBB) for the storage of two commonly grown maize varieties.

MATERIALS AND METHODSTwo maize varieties (obatanpa and denkye) were cleaned, dried and subjected to air tight storage in two bagging technologies (HTLBB and PIB). Triplicates of the bagged samples

Page 58 of 66

were arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) in a small holder farmer’s crib. Grains were assessed before and after storage of six months for changes in moisture content, weight loss, germination capacity of grains in the laboratory and in the soil dug about 3cm in triplicates. The color of the grains was determined with a Minolta Chroma meter using its colour measuring attachment (CR 310, Japan). The colorimeter was calibrated using a white standard tile on which (L= 97.51, a = +5.45 and b = -3.50) before the all (L a b) color values of the samples were measured. The samples for color measurements were taken at five locations chosen randomly on the surface and averages found for the triplicate treatments. The colour change, ΔE was determined as follows; ΔE = √ [(L*- L) 2 + (a*- a) 2 + (b* - b) 2]Hidden infestations of grains were determined before storage using an acid-fuchsin test. The mean monthly temperature and relative humidity measurements were recorded using EL- USB LCD 2 thermo hygrometer data loggers.All data unless specified was subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA.) using Genstat version 9.2 Statistical Software (Genstat, 2007). The means were separated using Least Significant Difference (LSD). The data from percentage germination or emergence was transformed using arcsine transformation to obtain a normal distribution

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONSIt was observed that the biodegradable polyethylene liners began to fragment after 6 months at maximum and mean temperatures of 44oC and 30oC (Figure 1), in store. This could be due to oxidative degradation of the d2w pro-oxidant additive of the biodegradable bag, as its exposure to the sun’s radiation results in degradation as reported by Kato et al. (1969); Arnaud et al. (1994); Satoto et al. (1997); Koutny et al. (2006) and Ojeda et al. (2009). Moisture ContentThe hermetic triple layer biodegradable bag (HTLBB) was found to increase the moisture content of grain stored in it (Figure 3). This increase could be due to water generated from respiratory activities of the grains, insects or fungi. In contrast an overall moisture content decrease was observed in all the polypropylene interwoven bags after storage. This could be low relative humidity as observed in (Figure2), resulting from its poor barrier to external environmental conditions. A similar phenomenon has been observed by (Fonseca et al. (1995); Bulaong and Dharmaputra (2002) and Shindano (2007) in storage.GerminationThe study showed that HTLBB storage of grains resulted in substantially higher germination than PIB in both laboratory (Figure 4A) and soil (field) (Figure 4B) tests. However, slight reduction in the germination of seeds observed in HTLBB could be attributed to increased moisture content, promoting the growth of fungi which may have fed on the germ of grains and reduced its germination capacity (Copeland and McDonald, 1995; Pradhan and Badola, 2012). The poor barrier protection of the polypropylene interwoven bag to oxygen in the environment increased insect activity. This led to low germination capacity of grains as report by Quezada et al. (2006).Weight lossAlthough slight levels of hidden infestation was observed in grains before storage. Weight loss of grains in the HTLBBs was lower than that of the PIBs (Figure 5). The reason for the increased weight loss in the polypropylene interwoven bag could be due to its permeability to both insects and oxygen. Consequently, new infestations probably occurred as a result of favourable oxygen conditions, allowing insects to continue to feed and proliferate leading to increased weight loss (Caneppelle et al., 2003). Colour

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Generally the whiteness of the grains decreased while yellowness increased after storage. This lead to high colour change (ΔE) values after storage (Figure 5). The observed phenomenon could be due to increased carotenoid level in grains over the storage period. Malik (2009) explained that carotenoid content increases with increasing storage period of grains in polyethylene, polypropylene and polyvinyl chloride bags.

CONCLUSIONSIt has been established from the study that internal and external environmental conditions of storage bags affects the storability of maize; the oxo-biodegradable liner in the triple layer bag, fragments when exposed to high environmental temperatures. Irrespective of bagging technology, the denkye maize variety is more resistance to weight loss caused by insect infestation than obatanpa. The hermetic triple layer biodegradable bag reduces insect reproduction and growth in maize storage, and can effectively maintain grain quality for food and seed during storage, provided it is well sealed, well dried (12% moisture content) and protected from rodentsACKNOWLEDGEMENTSThe authors are most grateful to Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa for their support.Literature citedAnon. (2011) Airtight Post-harvest Storage Helps African Farmers. African Farming and

Food Processing. Jan/Feb 2011: 32-33Armah, P.W. and Asante, F. (2006). Traditional maize storage systems and food security in

Ghana. Journal of Food Distribution Research 37:1.Arnaud, R., Dabin, P., Lemaire, J., Al-Malaika, S., Chohan S. and Coker, M. (1994).

Photooxidation and biodegradation of commercial photodegradable polyethylenes. Polymer, Degradation and Stability Journal 46: 211–224.

Caneppele, M.A.B.; Caneppele, C.; Lázzari, F.A.; Lázzari, S.M.N. (2003).Correlation between the infestation level of Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky, 1855 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) and the quality factors of stored corn, Zea mays L. (Poaceae). Revista Brasileira de Entomologia, Curitiba, v.47, n.4, p.625-630.

Copeland, L.O. and McDonald, M.B. (1995). Seed longetivity and deterioration. Principles of Seed Science and Technology, 3rd Edition Chapman and Hall, New Yorks pp 181-220.

Derraik, J.G.B. (2002). The pollution of the marine environment by plastic debris: a review. Marine pollution Bulletin 44(9): 842-852.

Fonseca, H., Cllori-Domingues, M.A., Gloria, E.M., Luiz Neto, M., Zambello, I.V. (1995). Influence of bag materials on moisture loss and final aflatoxin content of in-shell peanuts stored moist first studies. Food Additive Contamination 12: 337–341.

GenStat (2007). Genstat for windows, release 9.2. VSN International Limited, 9th edition, Oxford.

Jonfia-Essien WA, Navarro S, Villers, P (2010) Hermetic Storage: A novel approach to the protection of cocoa beans. African Crop Sci 18(2): 59-68.

Koutny, M., Lernaire, J., Delhort, A-M. (2006). Biodegradation of polypropylene films with pro-oxidant additives. Chemosphere 64: 1243-1252.

Malik, T.P (2009). Effect of Different Polythene Bags on Plw and Chlorophyll and Carotenoid Content of Pea Grains During Ambient and Zero Energy Chamber Storage. Annals of Horticulture 2(2): 155 – 160.

Navarro, H, Navarro, S Finkelman, S (2012) Hermetic and modified atmosphere storage of shelled peanuts to prevent free fatty acid and aflatoxin formation. Proceedings of the Conf Int Org Biol Integrated Control of Noxious Animals and Plants (IOBC). Work Group on Integrated Prot Stored Prod Bull. Volos, Greece. July 4-7, 2011.

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Navarro, S. (2006). Modified atmospheres for the control of stored-product insects and mites. in: insect management for food storage and processing, AACC International, Second edition.,St. Paul, MN, 146pp.

Obeng-Ofori, D. (2008). Postharvest science and technology. In Cornelius, E.W., and Obeng-Ofori, D.(ed). Major stored product arthropod pests. First edition. College of Agriculture and Consumer Science, University of Ghana. 146pp.

Ojeda, T.F.M., Dalmolin, E., Forte, M.M.C., Jacques, R.J.S., Bento, F.M. and Camargo, F.A.O. (2009). Abiotic and biotic degradation of oxo-biodegradable polyethylenes. Journal of Polymer Degradation and Stability 94: 965–970

Pradhan, B.K. and Badola, H.K Effect of Storage Conditions and Storage Periods on Seed Germination in Eleven Populations of Swertia chirayita: A Critically Endangered Medicinal Herb in Himalaya. The Scientific World Journal, Article ID 128105, 9 p

Quezada, M.Y., Moreno, J., Vazquez, M. E., Mendoza, M., Mendez-Albores, A. and Moreno-Martinez, E. (2006). Hermetic storage system preventing the proliferation of Prostefanus truncates Horn and storage fungi in maize with different moisture contents. Postharvest Biology and Technology. 39 (3):321-326.Stability. 56:275–279.

Satoto R, Subowo, W.S., Yusiasih, R., Takane, Y., Watanabe, Y. and Hatakeyama, T. (1997). Weathering of high-density polyethylene in different latitudes. Polymer, Degradation and Stability. 56:275–279.

Shindano, J. (2007). Functional properties of white maize meal stored under tropical conditions. Thesis submitted in fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of doctor (PhD) in Applied Biological Sciences: Chemistry. Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University 177pp

Figures

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Mea

n t

emp

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Figure 1: Changes in temperature during storage of obatanpa, ob and denkye, den maize samples for six months in a smallholder farmers crib

Page 61 of 66

1 2 3 4 5 60

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Inside storeOutside store

Storage time in months

Mea

n R

elat

ive

hum

idit

y %

Figure 2: Changes in relative humidity during storage of obatanpa, ob and denkye, den maize samples for six months in a smallholder farmers crib

ob, tb ob, poly den, tb den, poly0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

18

Before storageAfter six months of storage

Storage maize samples

% M

oist

ure

Con

ten

t

Figure 3: Changes in moisture content of stored obatanpa, ob and denkye, den maize samples after six months of storage in a smallholder farmers crib

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ob,tb ob,poly den,tb den,poly0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

Before storage

After storage of six months

Stored samples

% L

abor

ator

y ge

rmin

atio

n

Figure 4A: Changes in laboratory germination capacity of stored obatanpa, ob and denkye, den in HTLBB (tb) and PIB (poly) after six months of storage in a smallholder farmers crib

ob, tb ob, poly den, tb den, poly0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

Before storage

Stored Samples

% F

ield

ger

min

atio

n

Figure 4B: Changes in field germination of stored obatanpa, ob and denkye, den in HTLBB (tb) and PIB (poly) after six months of storage in a smallholder farmers crib

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ob,tb ob,poly den,tb den,poly0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

weight loss

Stored samples

% w

eigh

t lo

ss

Figure 5: Variation in weight loss of obatanpa, ob and denkye, den maize samples in HTLBB (tb) and PIB (poly) after six months of storage in a smallholder farmers crib

ob,tb, crib ob,poly, crib

den,tb, crib den,poly, crib

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

Before Storage

After six months of storage

Stored samples

Col

our

Cha

nges

(Δ

E )

val

ues

Figure 6: Changes in grain colour of stored obatanpa, ob and denkye, den maize samples in HTLBB (tb) and PIB (poly) after six months of storage in a smallholder farmers crib

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Improving Food Security and Income for Smallholder Farmers -Prof Kwame Afreh

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