12. Dr Edward S. Ayensu, Chairman of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research of Ghana, presented the keynote address, stressing the critical importance of addressing all stages of the food chain in ensuring wholesome and safe food. The speaker emphasized the need for governments and private sector entities of the region to take responsibility to improve food safety, as well as the need to educate and involve all stakeholders in the food chain in the production of safe food, including farmers and consumers. He noted that it was important that the countries of the region confront the issue of genetically modified foods in a pragmatic manner, rather than only with emotions. He advised that the region should base decisions related to food safety on scientifically justifiable facts. The speaker called upon African countries to improve collaboration within the region, with international organizations and with public, private, and civil society organizations. He called on governments of the region to take the lead in addressing food safety issues and honestly acknowledge the challenges facing the region. He concluded by recognizing the support and assistance received from FAO and WHO and requested their support in the future. The text of his speech is available as Annex 8.
