Abstract:
Geographical Indication (GI) is a form of intellectual property
identifying a product as originating from a region/locality/territory where its
quality and reputation is associated with its geographical origin. GIs are
considered as a place - specific quality assurance initiative that enhances the
monetary value of a product, hence increase producers’ premium.
Honey produced by the honeybee (Apis mellefera) is the most
commercialized hive product in Ghana. The country may have the opportunity
to promote unique honey products through geographical indications (GIs), to
improve the economic livelihood of the numerous honey producers across the
country, the environment by way of biodiversity conservation, and the country
through foreign exchange. Yet very little is known about the potential of
Ghanaian honeys in terms of development and promotion through GIs. The
same holds for botanical and geographical origins, quality, what a GI honey is
and whether Ghanaian consumers appreciate information on food labels and are
even aware of the concept of GIs.
GI product in Ghana. This study seeks to increase knowledge about the concept
of geographical indications. The investigations also assessed how the GI
concept could be introduced to the Ghanaian consumer by assessing how they
utilise information of food labels and how familiar they arc with a GI label. The
study took place in the Volta Region (for the main honey case studies) and the
Greater Accra Region (for consumer studies). In the Volta Region, four honey
producing districts (Kadjebi, Adaklu, Ho west and Akatsi south) were selected
for the studies. Data were collected from local producer groups on honey production processes, harvesting and extraction as well as how honey quality is
ensured among producers. Honey samples were also analysed for pollen and
physico-chemical qualities. Results from pollen and quality analysis together
with personal observations enabled the determination of botanical and
geographical origins of the honeys and their quality parameters within
international standards. Results on food label appreciation and GI awareness by
consumers enables the interpretation of how the Ghanaian consumer could be
engaged in terms of reaching them with the GI concept and its benefits. The
main investigation was premised on four research questions stemming from the
overall objective of the study.
