Researchers at the Crops Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR-CRI) are testing innovative technology designed to detect crop diseases in real time, a move expected to reduce losses and improve farm productivity.
The initiative, being implemented under the SporeSmart project, involves piloting specialised spore-collecting devices supported by Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based applications. The technology is aimed at identifying fungal infections on farms before they become widespread, allowing for quicker and more precise intervention.
The project focuses particularly on managing Fusarium species soil-borne fungi that significantly affect staple crops such as maize, rice and tomato. Fusarium infections can lead to reduced yields, threaten food safety, and impact farmer incomes and public health.
Dr Kwesi Atta Aidoo Snr, Research Scientist at CSIR-CRI and Country Lead for the project, explained during a stakeholder demonstration at Fumesua in the Ashanti Region that the SporeSmart collector traps fungal spores present in the air.
“When samples are sent to the laboratory, we are able to determine the type of disease likely to develop on the field,” he said.
He noted that early detection through real-time field surveillance and data-driven analysis could transform plant disease management. According to him, timely identification not only prevents severe crop damage but also reduces the excessive use of pesticides, lowers production costs and promotes environmentally responsible farming.
The project integrates AI-driven forecasting with sustainable biocontrol measures to develop a climate-smart and scalable solution to Fusarium management. The broader goal is to support healthier harvests, cut post-harvest losses and ultimately boost farmer incomes.
Funding for the initiative is being provided by UK Innovate, alongside research partners from the United Kingdom and Brazil.
Dr Aidoo revealed that between September 2025 and February 2026, five SmartSpore collectors were deployed, generating over 2,000 spore images, including samples of Fusarium species and other plant pathogens. The research team is currently refining the system and preparing to pilot it directly on farmers’ fields.
He added that once validated, commercial farmers would be able to purchase and install the devices independently. He also suggested that government could invest in the technology and make it available to agricultural extension officers to support smallholder farmers.
Dr Mrs Patricia Acheampong, Deputy Director of CSIR-CRI, said the project aligns with the Institute’s commitment to environmentally friendly and biologically based solutions that protect ecosystems, ensure food safety and promote climate-resilient agriculture.
Mr Luke Murell, Project Lead at MMVSense UK, expressed confidence in the project’s scalability, noting that with adequate financing and proper training of extension officers, early disease detection in crops could significantly improve across farming communities.
The researchers believe the technology has the potential to reshape crop protection strategies in Ghana by combining science, innovation and sustainability.
