A delegation from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology recently undertook a technical visit to the Agroecology and Circular Economy for Ecosystem Services project’s Multicultural Technology Park (MTP) at Fumesua, hosted by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research – Crops Research Institute.
The visiting team was guided through the park by Dr. Clement Oppong Peprah (Research Scientist, CSIR-CRI), Dr. Kwaku Onwona-Hwesofour Asante, and Mr. Reuben Nutefe, who provided detailed briefings on the design, operations, and strategic intent of the MTP.
The tour showcased the MTP as a living platform where agroecology and circular economy principles are translated into practical systems. Discussions focused on integrated crop–livestock models, organic waste valorization, nutrient cycling, and low-emission farming approaches that collectively contribute to improved soil health, resilient food production, and reductions in air pollutants linked to agricultural activities.
The delegation engaged with ongoing demonstrations and training-oriented infrastructure that position the MTP as a bridge between research, policy, and field-level application. Particular emphasis was placed on the park’s relevance as a regional hub for innovation scaling, capacity building, and evidence generation in support of cleaner air and climate-resilient agri-food systems.
The visit led by Prof Onwona Agyeman Siaw, Associate Professor (TUAT) reinforced shared interests between TUAT and CSIR-CRI in advancing applied research, academic exchange, and joint initiatives that link environmental science, agroecology, and circular economy pathways. It also marked an important step toward future collaboration under the ACE4ES framework, with potential benefits for both African and Asian contexts.
The ACE4ES project continues to leverage the Multicultural Technology Park as a flagship platform for demonstrating how science-led agroecological transitions can deliver ecosystem services, including improved air quality, while supporting sustainable livelihoods.
In support of the MTP activities and installations are support organizations like the Agency for Health and Food Security, Jack-Strong Company Ltd, Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana, Youth Initiative for Land in Africa and Africa Rice.
Story by: Nana Reuben