Top 8 Most Nutritious Maize๐ฝ Varieties in Ghana: Nutritious, Delicious & Consumer-Approved
๐Written by Emmanuel Appiah, an agricultural researcher passionate about crop diversity and food security in Ghana.
Date: August 31, 2025
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| A showcase of Ghana’s diverse maize varieties—from Obatanpa and Omankwa to Abontem, Honampa, Ahoษfe, Opeaburo, Kunjor Wari, and Nkwagye. Each variety tells a story of resilience, nutrition, and food security, making maize the true heartbeat of Ghanaian agriculture |
Maize ๐ฝ
Maize, locally known as aburo in Ghana, is one of the most important staple crops that feeds millions of households. From kenkey, banku,
and tuo zaafi to roasted maize sold by the roadside, it is central to
Ghanaian cuisine. Beyond its role in food production, maize makes a significant contribution to
Ghana’s economy and food security.
But not all maize is the same. Farmers and consumers in Ghana benefit from a wide range of maize varieties, each offering unique traits such as
taste, nutrition, maturity period, and adaptability to different soils and
climates. Choosing the right maize variety can make all the difference in both
nutrition and market value.
๐ Some Maize Varieties in Ghana
1. Obatanpa
Perhaps the most famous maize variety in Ghana, Obatanpa (meaning “good mother”), is rich in Quality Protein Maize (QPM). It provides higher protein levels, making it one of the most nutritious maize varieties for human consumption.
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| Type of variety: OPV; Maturity: 110-115 days; Potential yield (t/ha): 4.6; Seed colour: white; QPM. Excellent for enhanced nutrition and health of humans, poultry and livestock |
2. Omankwa
With its mix of white kernels, Omankwa (meaning “Life”) is a household staple. Its adaptability and good cooking quality make it popular among both farmers and consumers.
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| Type of variety: OPV; Maturity: 90 days;
Potential yield (t/ha): 5.0; Seed colour: White; QPM; For human consumption |
3. Abontem
A fast-maturing variety that farmers love for early harvests. The name “Abontem” means “early,” making it the go-to maize for quick food and income.
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Type of variety: OPV; Maturity: 75-80 days;
Potential yield (t/ha): 4.7; Seed colour: yellow; QPM. Good for poultry and
livestock.
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4. Honampa
Golden, attractive, and well-filled, Honampa is highly desirable in both local markets and home kitchens. Its grain quality ensures high demand.
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| Type of variety: OPV; Seed colour: Orange; Maturity: 110-115 days; Potential yield (t/ha): 5.2; Suitable for human and animal consumption |
5. Ahoษfe
A bright yellow variety with well-filled cobs. Ahoษfe is loved by
farmers for its high yield and by consumers for its attractive appearance and
rich taste.
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Type of variety: Hybrid; Seed colour: Orange;
Maturity: 110-115 days; Suitable for human and animal consumption; Potential yield (t/ha): 6.0 |
6. Opeaburo
Easily recognized by its white and creamy kernel blend, Opeaburo is
valued for cooking traditional Ghanaian meals. Its balance of softness and
starch content makes it a kitchen favourite.
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| Type of variety: Hybrid; Maturity: 110-115 days;
Potential yield (t/ha): 7.5; Seed colour: White; Moderately tolerant to
drought; Very good for domestic purposes |
7. Kunjor Wari
Golden-yellow and resilient, Kunjor Wari is adaptable across ecological
zones. Farmers appreciate it for dependable yields, and consumers enjoy its
great texture when prepared.
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| Type of variety: Top-cross hybrid; Maturity: 90
days; Potential yield: 5.7 t/ha; Grain colour: Yellow; Early maturity, drought
and Striga tolerant; good for poultry feed |
8. Nkwagye
Meaning “Savior” in Akan, Nkwagye maize is trusted for consistent
harvests, even under challenging growing conditions. It is a true food security
crop.
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Type
of variety: Three-way cross hybrid; Seed colour: Orange; Potential yield: 6.0 t/ha; Maturity: 110-115 days; Excellent
for industrial preparation: grits |
๐พ Why These Maize Varieties Matter
The diversity of maize varieties in Ghana ensures that farmers
and consumers alike benefit from improved yields, better nutrition, and
stronger food security.
- For
nutrition: Varieties like Obatanpa are enriched with
protein, improving diets.
- For
markets: Ahoษfe and Honampa are visually appealing and
attract high prices.
- For
resilience, Nkwagye, Opeaburo, and Kunjor Wari withstand
different farming conditions.
- For
food security, Omankwa and Abontem ensure quick harvests,
reducing hunger gaps.
✅ Final Thoughts
For nutrition,
choose Obatanpa or Abontem; for quick harvests, go for Abontem, Omankwa, and Kunjor Wari; for market
demand, plant Abontem, Ahoษfe, or Honampa. Each variety plays a crucial role in building a healthier, food-secure nation.
Ghana’s maize story is not just about farming—it’s about culture,
livelihood, and the promise of better nutrition for generations to come. ๐ฝ✨
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