National Food Safety Policy

NATIONAL FOOD SAFETY POLICY MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy I Contents ACKNOWLEDGMENT v FOREWORD vi ACRONYMS viii GLOSSARY ix 1.1. Background 1 1.1.1 Situational Analysis 2 1.1.2 Need for A National Food Safety Policy 6 1.2. Scope of Policy 6 1.3. Process of preparing the policy 7 1.4. Content and Structure 7 2.0 THE POLICY, LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL CONTEXT 8 2.1. Global Context 8 2.1.1 World Health Organization 8 2.1.2 FAO’s Role in the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) 8 2.2. Regional and sub regional Context 9 2.3. National Context 9 2.4. Legal framework on food safety 10 2.4.1. Public Health Act.2012(Act 851) 10 2.4.2. Ghana Standards Authority 10 3.0 POLICY FRAMEWORK 11 3.1. Vision 11 National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH II 3.2. Goal 11 3.3. Policy Objectives 11 3.4. Guiding Principles 11 4.0 STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE THE KEY OBJECTIVES 13 Policy objective 1: To strengthen food safety governance in Ghana 13 Policy objective 2: Strengthen institutional coordination and collaboration 14 Policy objective 3: To promote and ensure harmonization, synergy and enforcementof laws and regulation on food safety in Ghana. 17 5.0 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 17 5.1. Implementation Framework/Strategy 17 5.2. Institutional Arrangements for Implementing the Policy 17 5.3. National Coordinating Body and Implementation Structures 18 5.4. Roles of Various Sectors in Promoting Food Safety 18 5.4.1 Role of the Ministry of Health 18 5.4.2 Role of Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOTi) 19 5.4.3 Role of Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD) 19 5.4.4 Role of Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) 19 5.4.5 Role of Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development 20 5.4.6 Role of Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts 21 5.4.7 Role of Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations 21 5.4.8 Role of Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources 21 MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy III 5.4.9 Role of Ministry Works and Housing 22 5.4.10 Role of Ministry of Interior 22 5.4.11 Role of Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI) 23 5.4.12 Role of Ministry of Finance (MOF) 23 5.4.13 Role of Ministry of Education (MOE) 24 5.4.14 Role of Ministry of Justice and Attorney Generals Department 24 5.4.15 Role of Ministry of Information 24 5.4.16 Role of National Biosafety Authority 24 5.4.17 Role of Independent Commissions: 25 5.4.18 Role of the Judiciary 26 5.4.19 Role of Parliament 26 5.4.20 Role of other Partners 26 5.5. Ensuring Institutional Responsibility along the Value Chain 28 5.6. Resource Mobilization 30 6.0 MONITORING AND EVALUATION 31 6.1. MONITORING AND EVALUATION (M&E) 31 7.0 COMMUNICATION STRATEGY FOR THE POLICY – 32 7.1 Communication and Policy Dissemination Strategy 32 Appendix 1: List of supporting individuals and institutions 34 Appendix 2: List of laws with a bearing on food safety and standards: 36 National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH IV Appendix 3: Policies and strategies that will be complementary to the National Food Safety Policy 38 MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy V ACKNOWLEDGMENT The National Food Safety Policy document was made possible through the contributions and support of several institutions and individuals. The Ministry acknowledges with gratitude the contribution of the Technical Task Team that worked with the Consultants to prepare the report titled ‘Food Safety in Ghana: A Situational Analysis’, which formed the basis for the preparation of this Food Safety Policy. Gratitude and thanks go to the members of the National Food Safety Policy Drafting Committee that worked with Consultants in the preparation of this policy document. Special thanks also go to all those who reviewed and made comments during the drafting of the policy as well as those who participated in the various workshops to validate the findings of the Situational Analysis Report. Sincere thanks are expressed to our development partners namely, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), who set technical and financial support has immensely contributed to the development of this document. The Ministry is also grateful for the work of the Consultants who helped to put this document together including Mrs. Sheila Minkah - Premo, Mrs. Christine Dowuona Hammond and Mr. Samuel Manteaw. (Refer to appendix 1 for details). National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH VI FOREWORD Food safety has been described as protecting the food supply from microbial, chemical and physical hazards that may occur during all stages of food production, including growing, harvesting, processing, transporting, retailing, distributing, preparing, storing and consumption. When food safety systems are well developed, they contribute to improved public health, nutrition, enhance access to food trade, reduction of poverty, increased food security and the protection of the environment. There is increasing global interest in the safety of foods available for consumption. This interest has been heightened in the wake of the numerous food scares which have been experienced globally. To address these concerns, national and international strategies have been put in place to provide the requisite information, standards and regulations to ensure that consumers get the best value for health and nutrition. The Government of Ghana is also increasing awareness, with the public and private sectors as well as international agencies showing support and commitment to improve the food safety situation in the country. There has been a multiplicity of programmes instituted by institutions who contribute to ensuring that the foods consumed by Ghanaians are safe and of good quality. These programmes and actions are so far not driven by any uniform national food safety policy to allow effective coordination and evaluation along the value chain. It has therefore on this premise that a National Food Safety Policy I being developed for Ghana. The Ministry of Health (MOH) in collaboration with relevant Ministries, Departments, Agencies (including the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Ministry of Trade and Industries, Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology and Innovations, Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Ministry of Education, National Development Planning Commission) and other partners have prepared this Food Safety Policy for Ghana with the ultimate aim of establishing and maintaining an integrated farm to fork food safety system that ensures consumer health and public safety. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy VII This policy is being developed from a situation analysis report titled Food Safety in Ghana A Situational Analysis. The specific objectives of the assessment were to analyze the food safety situation in Ghana and make recommendations for the development of a National Food Safety Policy taking into account current and previous initiatives and programmes. The Situational Analysis report was validated by stakeholders at a couple of workshops. The policy has also been produced through a consultative process which included a stakeholder policy formulation workshop. The adoption and implementation of this National Food Safety Policy is expected to reduce the incidence of food borne diseases in the country. The National Food Safety Policy will also provide a basis for the establishment of National Food Safety objectives, requirements and guidance for application to specific sectors of the food chain, that is, from farm to fork. Through the adoption and promulgation of this Policy, the Government of Ghana reaffirms its commitment to fulfilling the constitutional obligation of ensuring safer and better nutrition for its population. KWAKU AGYEMAN-MANU (MP) MINISTER FOR HEALTH National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH VIII ACRONYMS ACT - Act of Parliament AFTAR - Africa Agriculture and Rural Development APD - Animal Production Directorate BAN - Basel Action Network BHC - Biosafety Clearing House BNARI - Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Institute CAC - Codex Alimentarius Commission CAG - Consumers Association of Ghana CCAFRICA - FAO/WHO Regional Coordinating Committee for Africa CSIR - Council for Scientific and Industrial Research GAEC - Ghana Atomic Energy Commission GHS - Ghana Health Service GRA - Ghana Revenue Authority ECOWAS - Economic Community for West African States EHO - Environmental Health Officers EIA - Environmental Impact Assessment EPA - Environmental Protection Agency EU - European Union FAO - Food and Agriculture Organisation FDB - Food and Drugs Board MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy IX FDA - Food and Drugs Authority FNS - Food and Nutrition Security FSMS - Food Safety Management Systems GEPA - Ghana Export Promotion Authority GPFH - General Principles of Food Hygiene GPRS - Ghana Poverty Reduction Strategy GRA - Ghana Revenue Authority GSA - Ghana Standards Authority GTA - Ghana Tourism Authority IHME - Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation IPEN - International POPs (Persistent Organic Pollutant) Elimination Network IPPC - International Plant Protection Convention ISD - Information Services Department ISO - International Organisation for Standardisation IUCN - International Union for Conservation of Nature KNUST - Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology L.I. - Legislative Instrument MDAs - Ministries, Departments and Agencies MESTI - Ministry of Environment Science and Technology and Innovation MLGRD - Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH X MMDAs - Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies MOE - Ministry of Education MOFA - Ministry of Food and Agriculture MOFAD - Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development MOFEP - Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning MOH - Ministry of Health MOTI - Ministry of Trade and Industry NCCs - National Codex Committees NBSSI - National Board for Small Scale Industries NDSU - National Disease Surveillance Unit NEP - National Enquiry Point NEPAD - New Partnership for African Development NGO - Non-Governmental Organisation NPPO - National Plant Protection Organisation NRCD - National Redemption Council Decree OIE - Office International des Epizooties (World Animal Health Organization) PNDCL - Provisional National Defence Council Law PPRSD - Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate RPPO - Regional Plant Protection Organization SPEG - Sea Freight Pineapple Exporters of Ghana SPS - Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy XI UCC - University of Cape Coast UDS - University for Development Studies VSD - Veterinary Services Directorate WHO - World Health Organisation WIAD - Women in Agricultural Development WTO - World Trade Organisation National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH XII GLOSSARY In this National Food Safety Policy, the following words and phrases have the following meanings: Certification The procedure by which a third party validates the authenticity of a person, a product, a process or a service to conform to a specific requirement. Certification body It is a third-party body authorized by legislation and/or other internationally accredited bodies to perform certification activities. Codex Alimentarius Means the standards, codes of practice, guidelines and recommendations issued by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. Coordination body Means the body designated and mandated by legislation or this policy to coordinate food safety activities in Ghana. Export Means take out of the Republic Food Includes water, drink, a food product, a live animal or a live plant, and includes: (a) a substance or thing of a kind used, capable of being used or represented as being for use, for human or animal consumption, whether it is live, raw, prepared or partly prepared, processed or partly processed (b) a substance or thing of a kind used, capable of being used or represented as being for use, as an in gradient or additive in a substance or a thing referred(b) to in paragraph (a) (c) A substance used in preparing a substance of a thing referred to in paragraph{a); (d) chewing gum or an ingredient or additive in chewing gum or a substance used in preparing chewing gum, and a substance or a thing declared by the Minister to be a food under section 146 (3); Food safety Assurance that the food will not cause harm when prepared and/ or eaten according to its intended use. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy XIII Food-borne disease monitoring The performance and analysis of routine measurements aimed at detecting changes in the environment or health status of populations. Food-borne disease surveillance The ongoing systematic collection, collation, analysis and interpretation of data followed by the dissemination of information to all those involved so that directed actions may be taken. The main objective of surveillance are out break detection, monitoring trends in endemic disease, evaluating interventions and monitoring programme performance and progress towards a predetermined control objective. Food suitability Assurance that food is acceptable for human consumption according to its intended use. Inspector A person appointed to conduct an inspection under any relevant law to ensure food safety. Import Bring into the Republic; Insanitary conditions Means conditions or circumstances which might contaminate a food product with dirt or filth or might render the article injurious or dangerous to health under relevant legislations. Manufacture Includes the operations involved in the production, preparation, and processing, compounding, formulating, filling, refining, transformation, packing, packaging, re-packaging and labeling of products. Regulatory Agency A body mandated by legislation to oversee and enforce laws. Registration The procedure by which an authorised body approves a product that guarantees the protection of public health and safety under any relevant law Slaughter Facility A slaughter house, slaughter slab, abattoir and premises or a place habitually used for the slaughter of animals for human and animal consumption. National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 1 1.0 INTRODUCTION Background Foodborne illnesses are an important cause of morbidity and mortality, and a significant impediment to socioeconomic development worldwide. Furthermore, outbreaks of foodborne illness can damage trade and tourism, and lead to loss of earnings, unemployment and litigation (Codex GPFH, 1969). The food chain has significantly evolved with advances in technologies and equipment for food manufacturing, storage and distribution. Eating habits have also undergone significant changes with efforts to make seasonal foods available all year round. Varieties of nontraditional foods and processed food are also being constantly moved from one region/country to another. International food trade and travel are increasing, bringing important social and economic benefits. However, this also makes the spread of illness around the world easier. The types, severity and impacts of these illnesses have changed through the ages and are still diverse across regions, countries and communities. According to WHO in 2010, about 600 million foodborne illnesses and 420,000 deaths were recorded across the globe. In the African region alone, WHO estimates that more than 91 million foodborne illnesses and 137,000 deaths occurred representing one third of the global death toll. Diarrhoea diseases was the 4th cause (7% of total cases) of morbidity among the top twenty causes of Outpatient Morbidity in Ghana in 2016 (GHS- Ghana Health Facts and Figures, 2017). According to the IHME Country profile on Global Burden of Diseases for Ghana in 2017, diarrhea diseases rank 8th on what causes the most deaths in Ghana and 1.4% of deaths were due to diarrheal diseases of which foodborne and waterborne diseases are part. In most cases only a fraction of the people who become sick from eating contaminated food seek medical care or report to public health authorities and are recorded in official disease statistics. Certain chronic diseases, such as cancer, kidney or liver failure, that result from contaminated food appear long after the ingestion of food and the causal link is never made for each case. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 2 Safer food saves lives. With every intake of food, one is potentially exposed to illness from either microbiological or chemical contamination. When a functional food safety system is in place, they contribute to improved public health, increased access to food trade, reduction of poverty, increased food security and the protection of the environment, enhanced productivity and above all, national development. Consequently, everyone, including primary producers, importers, manufacturers, processors, food warehouse/logistics operators, food handlers, retailers, and consumers, has a responsibility to ensure that food is safe and suitable for consumption. In Ghana, there are major concerns and gaps that currently exist with regard to national food safety. There are food safety issues with regard to food production, handling, packaging, processing and transportation. There are also multiplicities of regulators within the food value chain, whose activities are largely uncoordinated. As Ghana seeks to improve her competitiveness on the global markets, there is the need to review how agri-business (from production to consumption) is conducted especially as it relates to quality and risk analysis in the country. All operators in the food chain need to have capacities to assure food quality and safety to the consumer. There is increasing global interest in the safety of foods available for home and institutional consumption. To address these concerns, national and international strategies need to be put in place to provide information, standards and regulations to ensure that consumers get the best value for health and nutrition. Hence the need for the development of a National Food Safety Policy. 1.1.1 Situational Analysis An overview of the country’s food safety situation reveals major challenges that exist along the food value chain (farm to fork). These problems have been identified and discussed below: (a) Food Production and Food Safety The major food safety challenges associated with food production include chemical and microbial contamination of foods; poor harvesting and drying systems for grains resulting in the production and accumulation of fungal toxins; poor handling and packaging of fresh produce at the National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 3 farm level and local markets. In addition, some studies have noted that Ghana, like other African countries, has high incidence of food and water-related diseases due to microbial and chemical contamination (b) The food value chain The food value chain consists of a sequence of activities including production, harvesting, handling, packaging, transportation, marketing, distribution, processing and consumption. The Ghanaian food value chain is dominated by the informal sector which plays a major role in food delivery to the various end users and is involved in activities in food production, food trade, food processing, food distribution and marketing. From available studies12, some of the challenges faced by the informal sector include lack of potable water and contaminated receptacles for holding water for street vending operations, leading to several infections like leptospirosis, Clostridium perfringes gastroenteritis, cryptosporidiosis, diarrhea etc. Meat from unlicensed sources may expose the consumers to anthrax, bovine tuberculosis, trichinellosis and taeniasis. In addition, there are different types of markets in Ghana, the operations of which are controlled by Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs). Agricultural marketing in Ghana includes sale at: farm-gates, roadside /open markets; purpose-built markets with stalls; container/kiosk selling points; table-top and itinerant traders. They handle a wide range of food commodities in the form of raw, semi-processed and finished goods. For some commodities there is an intricate network of actors and activities which are generally not regulated, and it is difficult to trace the source of material being offered for sale. Some activities at the market can however be an important source of food contamination which can compromise food safety and health. Exposure of produce to unfavorable storage conditions; poor hygienic conditions for food marketing, processing and consumption can all contribute to challenges in food safety. (c) Imports and Exports 1 King, L. K., Awumbila, B. Canacoo, E. A. and Ofosu-Amaah, S. 2000. An assessment of the safety of street foods in the Ga district of Ghana; impleications for the spread of zoonoses. Acta Tropica 76: 39-43 2 Mensah, P., Yeboah-Manu, D, Owusu-Darko, K. and Ablordey, A. 2000. Street foods in Accra:how safe are they. Bulletin of the World Health Organization. 8- (7) 546-554. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 4 There are also challenges with the safety and quality of food items imported and exported. Other problems relate to food safety research, safety and control of genetically modified organisms and foods, inspection of food products and plants, all of which need to be addressed in a holistic manner. (d) Training in food safety Training for professionals in food safety is offered in different institutions some of which are not accredited. In addition, there is no system for overall coordination to ensure that training in food safety management systems are properly regulated. The absence of a National Food Safety Policy and Framework may account for the training challenges observed. Guidelines should be developed for the training institutions and industry. (e) Public and Consumer Education Consumer and public education is identified as being important in the safe handling of food, whether processed or unprocessed. There are concerns with street vending of food in unsanitary conditions exposing consumers to food safety hazards with serious health implications. Various educational programmes are mounted by organizations (Food and Drugs Authority, Ghana Standards Authority, Environmental Protection Agency, Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Ministry of Food and Agriculture etc) to educate consumers and operators, but there are still challenges in this area due to lack of coordination. (f) Laboratories and Surveillance With regard to food control laboratories and surveillance, it was noted that there are laboratories with the capacity to analyze foods and other products in support of a food safety system. Most of these are in the public-sector institutions. Specialized laboratories are present under the Food and Drugs Authority, Food Research Institute, Ghana Standards Authority, Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate, and Veterinary Services Directorate. The Food and Drugs Authority, Food Research Institute and Ghana Standards Authority have laboratories accredited to IS017025: General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories. There are also private sector laboratories that are mostly concerned with health and medical laboratory services. Ghana has a disease surveillance system that does not segregate food-borne disease to effectively inform the managers of National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 5 food safety. Three key ministries with agencies or institutions directly involved in monitoring and surveillance of foodborne diseases are the Ministry of Health (MOH) and Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) Ministry of fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MOFAD). Under these three Ministries are a number of agencies that are responsible for legislative, technical and practical implementation of food safety programmes. Under the MOH is the Disease Surveillance Department of the Ghana Health Service and the National Disease Surveillance Unit that was set up under the Public Health Directorate of the Ghana Health Service to coordinate and implement integrated surveillance activities in the country. Under MOFA and MOFAD are the Veterinary Service Directorate (VSD) and Fisheries Commission respectively, which coordinate and implement food-borne disease surveillance in animals. MOFA serves as a World Trade Organisation (WTO) focal points. Surveillance is also dependent upon the records of physicians and clinical laboratories. Reports on diseases and specific diagnosed infections in hospitals and clinics all over the country also contribute to the surveillance programmes. (g) Biosafety issues In recent years, Ghana is faced with the challenge of making substantial progress in food security due to the stagnant emergence of average yields. Food production continues to fluctuate from year to year because of the recent variations in the magnitude of rains during and between growing seasons, thereby destroying crops and livestock. This is a growing phenomenon that is also being experienced by other countries around the globe. Food biotechnology which focuses on the modification of genes of food sources such as plants, animals and microorganisms is aimed at improving food quantity and quality. However, since the first commercialization of biotechnology crops in 1996, some international and local food activists have raised uncertainty about whether or not biotechnology crops are as safe as conventional crops. This has seen the development of guidelines by some international organizations to ensure the safety of biotechnology in food production. In Ghana, the National Biosafety Act 2011 (Act 831) has been passed to regulate biotechnology activities in the country. However, the range of activities envisaged to be covered under the Act have not been fully executed by the collaborating agencies. There is therefore the need to ensure collaboration and coordination of efforts from relevant Agencies in executing the act. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 6 (h) Environmental Pollution and Food Safety The contamination of food of either plant or animal origin with different pollutants is a major problem in many countries including Ghana. A recent research by International POPs (Persistent Organic Pollutant) Elimination Network. (IPEN) and Basel Action Network (BAN) revealed high toxic chemicals in eggs and blood streams of animals straying and feeding at Agbogbloshie in Accra due to high pollution levels and Persistent Organic pollutants (POPs) in the soil and atmosphere The menace of plastic pollution which finds its way into water bodies and aquatic life in the sea also results in ingestion of micro or nano plastics by fishes which finds its way into the bloodstream of humans when we consume them. Environmental pollution thus presents a great risk to food safety and therefore requires an utmost attention through the active involvement of the citizenry in maintaining clean and safe environment, strong advocacy and effective implementation of environmental protection and sanitation related policy and regulatory frameworks. i. Legislative framework on food safety Ghana has several pieces of legislation on food safety including: legislation governing food and drugs, standards, veterinary services pests’ control and plant protection. 1.1.2 Need for A National Food Safety Policy The situational analysis on food safety revealed fragmented roles and poorly coordinated institutions in respect of food safety activities. However; there is great potential to harness their collective skills and strengths. It is recommended that a new organizational framework, which delineates core responsibilities should be developed. This will require Ministries, Departments and Agencies and other public and private institutions consider their roles and allow the development of a system that will bring efficiency in the development of policy options, technical approaches and operational activities. 1.2 Scope of Policy The scope of the national food safety policy is to build a sensitive responsive and resilient food safety system that assures the right to quality food in Ghana. The policy shall recognise national, regional and international practices, principles, guidelines, standards and agreements National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 7 governing food safety systems. It applies to all stakeholders involved in the food continuum: production, processing, storage, transportation and marketing. 1.3 Process of preparing the policy A multi-stakeholder task team was setup to oversee the process of assessing the food safety situation in Ghana. Consultants were engaged to undertake a situational analysis on food safety with recommendation for drafting the National Food Safety Policy which was reviewed by major stakeholders. A National Food Safety Policy Committee was then set up to engage a consultant and oversee the preparation of the National Food Safety Policy. A draft National Food Safety Policy including a strategic Action Plan for implementation was developed and submitted to series of stakeholder consultations for validation. 1.4 Content and Structure The previous section (Chapter One) outlines the problem statement for the policy and summarises some of the key findings from the situational analysis under take non-food safety and is followed by a look at the policy context in Chapter Two. The policy framework which includes the policy objectives, guiding principles and policy measures follows in Chapter Three. The next chapter (Chapter Four), sets out the implementation frame work/strategy for the policy. This is followed by the Institutional mechanisms for achieving policy objectives that are outlined (Chapter Five). The monitoring and evaluation section then follow in Chapter Six. The policy ends with a section on communication strategy for the policy in Chapter Seven. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 8 2.0 THE POLICY, LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL CONTEXT This section highlights the international, regional and national legal frameworks for food safety in order to establish the scope and context of the policy. The goals and objectives of this policy are founded on the principles and standards enunciated in the national laws as well as the International and Regional Conventions and Instruments, which Ghana has ratified. 2.1. Global Context The National Food Safety Policy is influenced by conventions, treaties and declarations by the international community. Some of which are but not limited to: 2.1.1 World Health Organization The World Health Organization (WHO) is the directing and coordinating authority on international health within the United Nations’ system. 2.1.2 FAO’s Role in the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) FAO work under the organisation’s mandate to eradicate hunger and malnutrition and to promote sustainable agricultural and rural development in contribution to the Global Health Security Agenda. Other recognized global agendas and organizations, include: • United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS • The UN Decade of Action on Nutrition (2016-2025) • World Trade Organization -Agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures • World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade Agreement • Codex Alimentarius Commission • Organization for Animal Health (OIE) • International Plant Protection Convention National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 9 2.2. Regional and sub regional Context The National Food Safety Policy is also aligned to some regional frameworks bordering on food safety which are but not limited to: • Maputo Plan of Action 2016 – 2030: The African Union Commission • Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) and a supporting operational plan (2018-2020). • Africa Regional Nutrition Strategy (ARNS) 2015–2025 • The African Union Commission’s response to challenges of malnutrition 2.3. National Context There are a number of national policies and institutional frameworks instituted by various sectors and agencies that touches on food and food safety for a healthy population. Some of these include: 2.3.1 Coordinated Programme of Economic and Social Development Policies (2017 – 2024) The Coordinated Programmes of Economic and Social Development Policies (2017 – 2024) is the overall national policy framework themed “Agenda for Jobs: Creating Prosperity and Equal Opportunities for All”. 2.3.2 National Health Policy (2019) The over-arching health sector policy framework, the National Health Policy (2019) themed “Ensuring Healthy Lives for All” derives inspiration from the Directive Principles of State Policy in Article 34 (2) of the 1992 Constitution of the Republic of Ghana—which among others requires the state to ensure the realization of the right to good healthcare for people living in Ghana irrespective of colour, race, geographical location, religion and political affiliation. The National Health Policy actively subscribes to the “Health- in -All Policy” and “One Health Declaration” which are pivotal for a concerted multi sectoral approach for policy implementation towards an efficient means of addressing key determinants of health for better health outcomes. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 10 2.3.3 Medium-Term National Development Policy Framework (2018 – 2021) The National Medium-Term Development Plan (2018 – 2021), themed “An Agenda for Jobs: Creating Prosperity and Equal Opportunity for All”. Under the policy area of Food and Nutrition Security, one of the policy objectives is to Strengthen Food safety and Nutrition Security Governance 2.4. Legal framework on food safety 2.4.1 1992 Constitution of Ghana Ghana’s 1992 Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, does not expressly address food safety. Under the Directive Principles of State Policy, the state is enjoined under Article 36(10) “…to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of all persons…” In pursuance of the Directive Principles of State Policy, Ghana has enacted several pieces of legislation on food safety governing food production, processing, transportation and distribution. These include the following3: 2.4.1. Public Health Act.2012(Act 851) The Part 7 of the Public Health Act, 2012 (Act 851), establishes the Food and Drugs Authority with the object of providing and enforcing standards for the sale of food, herbal medicinal products, cosmetics, drugs, medical devices and chemical substances4. 2.4.2. Ghana Standards Authority A number of laws and regulations have been developed to regulate the maintenance of standards in the country, particularly for all manner of food items. Refer to Appendix 3 for related Acts 3 See appendix 1 for list of relevant laws 4 Section 81 of Act 851.This Act repealed the Food and Drugs Act, 1992 (PNDCL 3058) as amended National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 11 3.0 POLICY FRAMEWORK 3.1 Vision Safe and suitable food for a healthy population 3.2 Goal To build a resilient system that assures safe and suitable food for all consumers 3.3 Policy Objectives The specific objectives of the National Food Safety Policy are as follows: I. To strengthen food safety governance in Ghana II. To Strengthen institutional coordination and collaboration III.To promote and ensure harmonization, synergy and enforcement of laws and regulation on food safety in Ghana. 3.4 Guiding Principles The National Food Safety Policy covers the laws, institutions, organizations and systems dealing with food related issues and how they interact to ensure national food safety. The policy also recognizes the development objectives of Ghana as well as international guidelines and conventions which Ghana has ratified. The following guiding principles underpin this National Food Safety Policy: i. Inter-sectoral collaboration and coordination - Collaboration among the various sectors that have a role to play in food safety must be ensured. Collaboration should be well structured and coordinated to ensure efficiency. ii. Inclusiveness - This refers to stakeholder participation at all levels of the integrated farm to table context is critical. The objective of reduced risk can be achieved most effectively by the principle of prevention throughout the food value chain. All players involved along the food chain should recognize their primary responsibility and share a common MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 12 goal of assuring the safety of food along the food chain. iii. Transparency - All aspects of the national food control system should be transparent and open to scrutiny by all stakeholders, while respecting legal requirements to protect confidential information as appropriate. Transparency considerations apply to all participants in the food chain and this can be achieved through clear documentation and communication. Equity and fairness at all levels of the value chain must be ensured. Decision-making processes in the food control system must be transparent and open to enable stakeholders make contributions. iv. Risk assessment - Evidence based approach shall be used to address food safety issues. Risk assessment will be used to scientifically evaluate known or potential adverse health effects resulting from exposure to food safety hazards whenever scientific evidence is available. Risk assessment shall be undertaken in an independent, objective and transparent manner. v. Protection of consumers interest - The consumers interest is paramount in the national food control system and shall be protected at all times. The policy shall provide a basis for consumers to make informed choices in relation to the foods they consume. vi. Traceability - The traceability of food, food-producing animals and any other substance intended to be, or expected to be incorporated into food shall be established at all stages of production, processing and distribution. vii. Precautionary principles - In circumstances where available information suggests the possibility of health risk but scientific information is inconclusive or uncertainty persists, provisional risk management measures necessary to ensure the appropriate level of health protection shall be adopted, pending further scientific information for more comprehensive risk assessment. The measures shall be reviewed within a reasonable period of time, depending on the nature of the risk to life and health identified and the type of scientific information needed to clarify the scientific uncertainty and to conduct a more comprehensive risk assessment. National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 13 4.0 STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE THE KEY OBJECTIVES Strategies by Government to achieve the policy objectives of the National Food Safety Policy are indicated below: Policy objective 1: To strengthen food safety governance in Ghana Strategic actions: i. Establish a standard format for licensing those who handle food. ii. Promote the use of national standards among stakeholders, in the absence of national standards identify international standards for adoption. iii. Develop Social Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) strategy of food safety iv. Promote, encourage and coordinate the education of consumers on food safety by key stakeholders v. Strengthen the existing food-borne disease surveillance system vi. Build partnerships and links with existing health education programmes including integration into nutrition and food security programmes. vii. Establish an effective monitoring system to ensure proper maintenance of the infrastructure. viii. Sensitizes stakeholders on food safety control programmes in Ghana such as HACCP, GMP, GAP, GHP, ISO 22000 and FSSC 22000. ix. Encourage the utilization of Food Safety Management Systems (HACCP and ISO 22000 and FSSC 22000). x. Establish an effective consumer complaint handling system that keeps track of complaints and gives feedback MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 14 Key Results Areas It is anticipated that the implementation of this policy objective will Result in; i. the establishment of food-borne disease surveillance network and early warning systems ii. The institutionalization of Food Safety Management Systems (HACCP and ISO 22000 and FSSC 22000). iii. the Development of Social Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) strategy of food safety Policy objective 2: Strengthen institutional coordination and collaboration Strategic actions: i. MOH to setup an effective inter-sectorial food safety coordinating committee as a mechanism to coordinate and oversee all food safety and control activities in the country in collaboration with other stakeholders ii. Develop human capacity along the food value chain by encouraging training of food handlers and to ensure the continual upgrading of skills of food professionals through in-service training programmes Strengthen the capacity of existing laboratories as part of the food borne disease surveillance system. iii. Establish guidelines for training in food safety. iv. Encourage issuance of certificate to qualified personnel after training of personnel by relevant institutions. v. Include food safety education in the curricula of schools from primary to higher education. vi. Establish a food-borne disease surveillance network and early National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 15 warning system which involves population-based active surveillance for laboratory confirmed infections. vii. Strengthen a mechanism to ensure that food facilities are established with the approval of appropriate institutions. viii. Ensure food facilities are brought into compliance with relevant standards and regulations. ix. Ensure the use of appropriate means of transportation and storage along the food chain. x. Strengthen the capacity of existing laboratories as part of the food borne disease surveillance system Promote the establishment of well-equipped and accredited laboratories as part of the food safety surveillance system. Key Results Areas It is anticipated that the implementation of this policy objective will Result in; i. functional inter-sectorial food safety coordinating committee ii. the use of national standards for food safety Policy objective 3: To promote and ensure harmonization, synergy and enforcement of laws and regulation on food safety in Ghana. Strategic actions: i. Recommend amendments and harmonisation of the legislation of stakeholder institutions including those of Ministries, Departments and Agencies to ensure there are no overlaps of mandate and functions ii. Establish measures to improve enforcement of legislation and regulations on food safety. iii. Recommend for amendment when necessary existing laws to be consistent with national and international best practices. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 16 iv. Facilitate the completion of the various bills on food safety to clearly spell out the roles of each institution and what collaborations need to be put in place. v. Identify other priority areas for action and the drafting of the necessary legislation. Key Results Areas It is anticipated that the implementation of this policy objective will Result in; i. Harmonised mandate and functions of MDAs on food safety National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 17 5.0 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN 5.1. Implementation Framework/Strategy The National Food Safety Policy provides policy directions and guidance on food safety. It will promote and guide adequate research, training, monitoring and food-borne disease surveillance activities of the sector. The focus areas that will direct the work of ensuring food safety are i Food Safety Research, Food-Borne Disease Surveillance, Inspection and Enforcement, Food Safety Training, Food Safety Public Education, Consumer Protection, Regulatory and legislative Control of Food Safety and Regional and International Representation 5.2. Institutional Arrangements for Implementing the Policy The institutional arrangement will be based on the Common Management Arrangement (CMA) of the health sector. The Ministry will continue to play its role in leading the development of policies/strategies, planning, regulating, coordinating monitoring and evaluation of the sector and all its activities. The MoH will work with and through frontline Agencies such as the FDA, MDAs and other key stakeholders whose mandate covers respective areas of the document to ensure successful implementation. The Chief Director of the Ministry shall be responsible for providing strategic leadership for operationalization of all policy statements and strategies. He or she shall also ensure that adequate resources are allocated for implementation through the annual budget system. All agencies shall ensure they adhere to the Core Values and Guiding Principles of this policy and also plan according to the thematic areas. The MoH will provide the enabling environment for collaboration with all stakeholders and players in the health sector for clear directions as to how they can fit and align their interests and focus areas. The Minister for Health shall provide the overall political direction of the government in the execution and implementation of the policy by all relevant agencies and partners. In designing the various strategies for implementation of the National Food Safety Policy, various stakeholders at different levels have to be involved in ensuring successful implementation. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 18 5.3. National Coordinating Body and Implementation Structures Various sectors have a role to play in promoting food safety. To ensure effective coordination of activities, structures are outlined for key stakeholders with regard to the coordination of food safety activities. The lead ministry responsible for food safety activities in Ghana is the Ministry of Health. Under Section 82 (b) of the Public Health Act 2012, Act 851, the Ministry through its agency the FDA shall monitor through the District Assemblies and any other agency of state to ensure compliance with provision son food safety. Relevant Ministries, Departments, Agencies and others stakeholders also have important role stop lay in ensuring good food hygiene and safety practices to achieve the objectives of this policy. A mechanism to promote effective collaboration between them and the proper delineation of roles and responsibilities to ensure effective coordination shall be established. 5.4. Roles of Various Sectors in Promoting Food Safety 5.4.1. Role of the Ministry of Health a. Coordinate implementation of National Food Safety Policy with the Food and Drugs Authority as Secretariat. b. Adopt and elaborate national food safety strategies. c. Mobilize partners and resources to support activities related to research, advocacy, and coordination of food safety programmes. d. Through facilities under the Ghana Health Services National Disease Surveillance Unit (NDSU) contribute towards the early warning system for disease control. e. Develop communication and advocacy strategies for food safety. f. Provide leadership for integration of food safety in other health and nutrition programs. g. Reinforce food-borne disease surveillance system in collaboration with other relevant ministries, departments and agencies and contribute to an effective system under the National Food Safety Policy. National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 19 h. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy 5.4.2. Role of Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOTi) a. Collaborate with the coordinating body for national food safety by ensuring the availability of relevant standards for food safety. b. Promote the effective implementation of food safety schemes. c. Through the work of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) sensitise exporters on the National Food Safety Policy. d. Provide Leadership in integration of food safety in existing programmes. e. Contribute to the food-borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy. f. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. g. Promotion of standardization in industry and commerce 5.4.3. Role of Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD) a. Collaborate with the coordination body for national food safety by ensuring that MMDAs Implement food control and safety standards under the National Food Safety Policy at the local level through their Environmental Health Officers. b. Contribute to the food-borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy. c. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. 5.4.4 Role of Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) a. Contribute to the National Food Safety Policy by providing technical support for crop, pest, disease management and animal health. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 20 b. Be responsible for the issuance of import permit and phytosanitary certificates for exports for plant and plant products through the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD). c. Veterinary Services Directorate (VSD) is responsible for issuing animal health certificate for export and import of animals and products of animal origin. d. VSD is responsible for imposing restrictions on the movement of animals in and out of infected areas during outbreaks. e. Ensure actors along the value chain especially women are sensitized on food safety issues through the Women in Agriculture Development (WIAD) programme. f. VSD is responsible for preventing and controlling the spread of infectious and contagious diseases among animals by declaring a district, area or place to be an infected area where a disease breaks out in an area. g. Leadership for integration of food safety in existing programmes including the Food Safety Action Plan with regard to plants and animals. h. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy 5.4.5 Role of Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development a. Contribute to the National Food Safety Policy by providing technical support for fishery establishments, fish stocks, fish pest and disease management. b. Standardized fish quality, weight and the basis for fish pricing in consultation with any other agencies that have responsibility for fish quality standards c. Promote sub-regional, regional and international co-operation in fisheries management. d. Issue animal health certificate for fish exports, and permit for the import of fish and fishery products through the Fisheries Commission National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 21 subject to current protocols. e. Monitor Fish and Fishery Products through the Fisheries Commission. f. Control importation of Fish and fishery products in line with current protocols. g. Sensitize actors involved in the fish value chain on food safety issues. h. Contribute to the implementation of the information education and communication component of the National Food Safety Policy. i. Undertake research on food safety at the tertiary level. j. Contribute to the food-borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy. k. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. 5.4.6 Role of Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts a. Promote food safety within the tourism industry in harmony with the National Food Safety Policy. b. Contribute to the food-borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy by furnishing appropriate information. c. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. 5.4.7 Role of Ministry of Employment and Labour Relations a. Ensure that workers seeking employment with in the food industry are trained and certified where applicable under the appropriate certification systems. b. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. 5.4.8 Role of Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 22 a. Implement policies and programmes to ensure access to potable water for communities and development of appropriate sewage systems. b. Provide leadership in integration of food safety in environmental sanitation programmes including the work of the National Environmental Sanitation Policy Coordination Council. c. Contribute to the food-borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy by furnishing appropriate information. d. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. 5.4.9 Role of Ministry Works and Housing a. Ensure the design and putting up of appropriate structures for operations along the food value chain in collaboration with other relevant bodies. b. Contribute to the food-borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy by furnishing appropriate information. c. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. 5.4.10 Role of Ministry of Interior a. Ensure that its policies are in line with the National Food Safety Policy. b. Assist relevant agencies in enforcing food safety provisions. c. Contribute to the food-borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy by furnishing appropriate information. d. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. e. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 23 5.4.11 Role of Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI) a. Control and monitor the use and management of pesticides and hazardous chemicals in food production and related activities through the EPA. b. Provide leadership for integration of food safety in relevant environmental programmes including the work of the Hazardous Chemicals Committee. c. Strengthen the role of Environmental Protection Inspectors and Pesticide Inspectors to undertake their mandates on environmental protection and pesticide control and management d. Undertake research on food related issues through its relevant institutions (CSIR, GAEC) e. Contribute to the food-borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy. f. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. g. Develop crop varieties that have improved nutrition and health benefits and the potential to research and develop more varieties that assures safe food and strategies for post-harvest losses. 5.4.12 Role of Ministry of Finance (MOF) a. Make budgetary allocation to facilitate and support the assurance of food safety. b. Provide other funds necessary to ensure the preparation and implementation of the action plan to implement the National Food Safety Policy. c. Monitor and control the export and import of food through Ghana Revenue Authority, (Customs Division) in collaboration with relevant agencies MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 24 d. Contribute to the foodborne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy. e. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. 5.4.13 Role of Ministry of Education (MOE) a. Integrate food safety information in the curricula for pupils and students. b. Ensure that training facilities on food safety have programmes to educate trainees on the National Food Safety Policy. c. Comply with the certification systems in place. 5.4.14 Role of Ministry of Justice and Attorney Generals Department a. Support in the preparation of Legislative Instruments for food safety related laws. b. Prepare other bills deemed necessary to ensure food safety. c. Advice on prosecution on food safety related offences. d. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. 5.4.15 Role of Ministry of Information a. Support the dissemination of information on NFSP through the Information Services Department (ISO) b. Contribute to the food borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy by furnishing appropriate information. c. Ensure that relevant agencies under the Ministry provide technical support for the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy.’’ 5.4.16 Role of National Biosafety Authority a. Consider and determine applications for approval for the development, National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 25 transfer, handling and use of genetically modified organisms and related activities in accordance with the provisions of the Biosafety Act b. Co-ordinate, monitor and activities relating to save development, transfer, handling and use of genetically modified organisms in order to ensure such activities do not have adverse effect on human beings and the environment c. Co-ordinate research and surveys in matters relating to the safe development, transfer, handling and use genetically modified organisms and to collect, collate and disseminate information about the findings of such research investigations or survey d. Identify national requirements for manpower development and capacity building in biosafety e. Advice the Government on legislation and other measures relating to the safe development, transfer, handling and use of genetically modified organisms f. Promote awareness and education among the general public in matters relating to biosafety g. Establish and maintain a biosafety clearing house (BCH) to service as a means through which information is made available to facilitate exchange of scientific, technical, environmental and legal information, and experience with living modified organisms h. Perform any other function which is incidental to the performance of any other foregoing functions 5.4.17 Role of Independent Commissions: a. Water Resources Commission b. Ensure compliance with relevant directives on food safety in issuing licenses for the use of water bodies. c. Contribute to the food-borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy by furnishing appropriate information. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 26 d. National Development Planning Commission e. Formulate national development policies that take into consideration the National Food Safety Policy and issues arising from it. 5.4.18 Role of the Judiciary a. Contribute to the enforcement of relevant laws relating to food safety when such cases are taken to court. b. Set up special courts to handle food safety related cases. 5.4.19 Role of Parliament a. Enact regulations to implement the Public Health Act. b. Enact other legislation necessary to promote food safety in Ghana. c. Hold the Executive accountable for effective implementation of the National Food Safety Policy and programmes emanating from it. 5.4.20 Role of other Partners i. The Private Sector Organisations: • Support the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. • Build the capacity of its members on food safety. • Undertake research on food safety. • Contribute to the food-borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy by furnishing appropriate information. ii. Consumers and Consumer Associations • Advocate for support for implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. • Demand for the enforcement of food safety laws and policies. • Provide relevant information on food safety for their members and the general public. National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 27 • Contribute to the food-borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy by furnishing appropriate information. • Institute and implement complaints mechanisms for redress of consumer complaint iii. Development Partners • Support the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. • Contribute to the food-borne disease surveillance system under the National Food Safety Policy by furnishing appropriate information iv. Civil Society Organisations • Support the implementation of the National Food Safety Policy. v. Collaborators • The following collaborators among others shall have a role to play in ensuring food safety: • Ministry of Defence • Other research institutions • National Codex Committee • Industries • Private Enterprise Federation (Association of Ghana Industries, FAGE) • Ghana National Association of Farmers and Fishermen • Transport Unions • National Fisheries Association on of Ghana (NAFAG) • Waste Managers MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 28 5.5 Ensuring Institutional Responsibility along the Value Chain The role of institutions along the food value chain including Production, Harvesting, Post harvest storage, Processing, Distribution, Storage, Marketing, Food service operation and consumption are clearly identified as follows: Food Value Chain Institutions Local Productions, Animals and Crops MOFA Directorates and Agencies; Input dealers-Agro-chemicals, Feed Millers; Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development; Imported Agro-Producers; Irrigation Development Authority, Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI, EPA); GSA. Harvesting Harvesting MOFA; GSA; MOFAD; EPA; Private sector (machinery operators, fabricators and farmers). Post-Harvest Storage MOFA; GSA; FDA; EPA; MOFAD; Ghana Atomic Energy Commission; Private Sector (Farmers, Traders, Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development; Storage facility operators); Ghana Grain Council; CSIR,etc. Processing MOFA; MOFAD; FDA; MOTi; GSA; Private sector; Universities; CSIR; Private laboratory services. Distribution and Transportation MOFA; MOFAD; EPA; Ministry of Interior Ghana Police Service; FDA; Ministry of Finance, Ghana Revenue Authority (Customs Division); GSA; Private Sector; Ministry of Roads and Transport. National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 29 Marketing FDA; GSA; MLGRD (Environmental Health Officers (EHO)); marketing operations; MOFA-Veterinary Services, PPRSD, WIAD; Private Sectors. Food Service Operations and House hold Consumption FDA; GSA; MLGRD (MMDAs), EHOs; Private Sector; MOFA-Women in Agricultural Development; Ghana Tourism Authority. Imports FDA, GSA, GRA, MOFA-PPRSD & VSD; MOFAD, National Biosafety Authority Private Sector Exports GSA; FDA; GRA; GEPA; MOFAD; MOFA PPRSD & VSD; Private Sector Standards for food safety FDA; GSA together with relevant institutions Science based research on food safety CSIR and Universities Food-borne Disease Surveillance MOH; FDA; GHS, EPA; MOFA and MOFAD Consumer protection Consumer protection groups and individual consumers, FDA, MOH Information, Education and Communication All relevant MDAs; MMDAs, training institutions and consumer protection groups. Waste management MMDAs; environmental service providers and their associations. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 30 All these stakeholders will be required to collaborate with the National Food Safety lnter-Sectorial Committee in their area of focus in promoting the National Food Safety Policy. Cross cutting issues along the food value chain including: Science based research in food safety, Food-Borne Disease Surveillance, Consumer protection Information, Education and Communication and waste management should be strengthened 5.6 Resource Mobilization Mobilizing the requisite resources is paramount for the successful implementation of the policy. Since the policy is designed to ensure public health security for the people of Ghana, adequate budgetary allocation from government and other sources shall be required for the implementation of the policy. The MoH shall also use innovative approaches and efficient business operations to mobilize domestic resources to fund the policy. Financing options will include but not limited to; 1. Government of Ghana Budgetary Support 2. Development Partner(s) Support 3. Engagement of Corporate Institutions 4. Non-Governmental Organizations /Civil Society Organisations 5. Public Private Partnerships (PPP) 6. Individuals and Philanthropists 7. Other sources as may be deemed necessary National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 31 6.0 MONITORING AND EVALUATION 6.1 MONITORING AND EVALUATION (M&E) Monitoring and Evaluation of the policy will be the responsibility of the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Food and Drugs Authority and the National Food Safety lnter Sectorial Committee. As part of the process an effective M&E system will be built into the strategic framework from the onset. The system will monitor programme implementation and performance against a set of pre-determined indicators at all levels. All collaborating institutions will be expected to setup a monitoring and evaluation system for food safety in accordance with system prescribed by the National Food Safety Coordinating Committee as the lead monitoring body. The committee will be replicated across the regions and districts where possible to ensure synchronisation and harmonisation. Implementing agencies shall be required to submit periodic reports to the National Food Safety Coordinating Committee. There shall be an annual independent review evaluation of the monitoring of the food safety process which shall be published periodically. 6.2 Review of the Policy This may be done periodically or within a certain reasonable time-period that takes into consideration, the nature, scope and time frame of the policy. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 32 7.0 COMMUNICATION STRATEGY FOR THE POLICY – 7.1 Communication and Policy Dissemination Strategy The aims of the communication and policy dissemination strategy will be to raise awareness in ensuring that all stakeholders appreciate the role they play in ensuring the right to quality and safe food. The following steps shall be considered for the dissemination of the policy a. National Launching of the document b. Inauguration of the National Food Safety Intersectoral Committee There shall be a National Launch of this policy to ensure that all key stakeholders and partners both local and international understand the major highlights of the document as well as have a buy-in for a successful implementation. The National Food Safety Policy will be disseminated at the regional level and across all key implementing agencies. The regional health administrations in collaboration with the RCC shall ensure that the policy is further disseminated at the district, sub-district and community level with involvement of all relevant stakeholders. The use of Social Marketing principles to influence human behavior in order to improve food safety outcomes and ensure citizens satisfaction shall be adopted by all implementing agencies and stakeholders. The following key strategies should be considered in order to achieve the stated communication aims of the National Food Safety Policy: 1. Use of all available means (i.e. publications, campaigns etc) to engage with all stakeholders throughout the health sector & the country at large. 2. Inspire and motivate all members of staff, clients and the public to play an active role in achieving the vision of the National Food Safety policy. 3. Factual information should be provided quickly, through an authoritative, accessible source with a clear, understandable message National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 33 4. The National Food Safety lnter Sectoral Committee and the Public Relations Unit of the MoH/FDA shall position itself in consultation with relevant agencies to espouse the values of this policy. 5. The Media shall serve as a strategic catalyst to support the communication and dissemination of the policy. 6. Greater support is also needed for research and evaluation in public health communication that is truly trans-disciplinary, simultaneously addressing multiple health issues, intervention levels, and communication channels. MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 34 Appendix 1: List of supporting individuals and institutions S/N NAME DESIGNATION/ INSTITUTIONS 1 Hon. Kwaku Agyeman-Manu Minister for Health 2 Hon. Tina Mensah Dep. Minister for Health 3 Hon. Alexander Abban Dep. Minister for Health 4 Nana Kwabena Adjei-Mensah Chief Director, MoH 5 Dr. Emmanuel Odame Ankrah Ministry of Health Policy Drafting Team 6 Mrs. Delese Mimi Darko Food and Drugs Authority 7 Mrs. Isabella Mansa Agra Food and Drugs Authority 8 Ms. Esi Amoaful Ghana Health Service 9 Mr. John Odame-Darkwa Food and Drugs Authority 10 Mrs. Joycelyn Egyakwa-Amusah Food and Drugs Authority 11 Ms. Maria Lovelace-Johnson Food and Drugs Authority 12 Mr. Benjamin Osei Tutu Food and Drugs Authority 13 Ms. Cynthia Dapah Ntow Food and Drugs Authority 14 Dr. M. Mohammed Alfa Food and Drugs Authority 15 Mr. Edward Archer Food and Drugs Authority 16 Dr. Francis Konadu-Ampratwum Ministry of Food and Agriculture 17 Dr. F. D. Tay National Development Planning Commission National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 35 18 Ms. Mary Mpereh National Development Planning Commission 19 Mr. Nii – Odoi Odotei National Development Planning Commission 20 Mrs. Akosua Kwakye` World Health Organization 21 Mrs. Sophie Tadria Food and Agriculture Organization 22 Ms. Joyce Okoree Ghana Standards Authority 23 Mrs. Genevieve Baah-Mante Ghana Standards Authority 24 Dr. Sam Adu-Kumi Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation 25 Dr. Maureen Martey Ministry of Health 26 Mr. Benjamin Nyakutsey Ministry of Health 27 Mr. Lucas Annan Ministry of Health 28 Mr. Alex Moffat Ministry of Health 29 Mr. Daniel Gyan Ministry of Health 30 Mr. Joseph Kofi Adusei Ministry of Health 31 Mr. William Frimpong-Bonsu Consultant Ministries Ministry of Food and Agriculture Ministry of Finance Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry of Trade and Industry Ministry of Education Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 36 18 Ms. Mary Mpereh National Development Planning Commission 19 Mr. Nii – Odoi Odotei National Development Planning Commission 20 Mrs. Akosua Kwakye` World Health Organization 21 Mrs. Sophie Tadria Food and Agriculture Organization 22 Ms. Joyce Okoree Ghana Standards Authority 23 Mrs. Genevieve Baah-Mante Ghana Standards Authority 24 Dr. Sam Adu-Kumi Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation 25 Dr. Maureen Martey Ministry of Health 26 Mr. Benjamin Nyakutsey Ministry of Health 27 Mr. Lucas Annan Ministry of Health 28 Mr. Alex Moffat Ministry of Health 29 Mr. Daniel Gyan Ministry of Health 30 Mr. Joseph Kofi Adusei Ministry of Health 31 Mr. William Frimpong-Bonsu Consultant Ministries Ministry of Food and Agriculture Ministry of Finance Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry of Trade and Industry Ministry of Education Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection Ministry of Information Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development Appendix 2: List of laws with a bearing on food safety and standards: Public Health Act,2012(Act 851) Tourism Act, 2011 (Act817) Local Government Act, 1992 (Act462) and Establishment Instruments for Metropolitan/MunicipaI/District Assemblies Standards Authority Act,1973 (N.R.C.D 175) Ghana Standards (Certification Marks) Rules,1970 (L.1. 662) Ghana Standards (Certification Marks) (Amendment Rules),1970 (L.1. 664) Ghana Standards Board (Amendment) Decree,1979 (A.F.R.C.D. 44) Ghana Standards Board (Food, Drugs and Other Goods) General Labeling Rules, 1992 (L.1. 1541) Weights and Measures Act, 1975 (N.R.C.D. 326) Weights and Measures (Amendment) Law,1992(P.N.D.C.L. 301) Legislative Framework on Controlling Pests affecting Plants Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1994 (Act490) Plants and Fertilizers Act, 2010 (Act 803) Legislative Framework on Health and Safety of Animals and Animal Products Animals (Control of Importation) Act, No. 36 of1952 National Food Safety Policy MINISTRY OF HEALTH 37 Diseases of Animals Act, 1961 (Act 83) Veterinary Surgeons Act, 1992, (P.N.D.C.L. 305C) Fisheries Act, 2003 (Act625) MINISTRY OF HEALTH National Food Safety Policy 38 Appendix 3: Policies and strategies that will be complementary to the National Food Safety Policy 1. National Health Policy 2. Food and Agriculture Sector Development Policy II 3. Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy 4. Environmental Sanitation Policy 5. Ghana Trade Policy 6. Ghana Poverty Reduction Strategy 7. Ghana Shared Growth and Development Agenda 8. Revised Food Safety Action Plan 9. National Nutrition Policy 10. The Coordinated programme of Economic and Social Development Policies (2012 – 2024) 11. An Agenda for Jobs: Creating Prosperity and Equal Opportunity for All ( 2018 – 2021) 12. Medium -Term National Development Policy Framework 13. Antimicrobial Resistant Policy