New scientific research from Ghana’s University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) has validated fermented human urine as a safe and effective herbicide. This study confirms that urine can suppress weeds without harming soil properties or crop quality, offering a vital alternative to synthetic chemicals.
The research, conducted by UENR’s Department of Horticulture and Crop Production, was initiated in May 2025. It aimed to provide scientific backing for agroecological farming practices championed by the Ghana Agroecology Movement (GAEM). The findings address the urgent need for safer weed management solutions, especially given the widespread use and negative impacts of glyphosate.
Ghana’s agricultural sector faces significant challenges from weed infestation, which reduces crop yields and increases production costs. Farmers commonly rely on synthetic herbicides like glyphosate. However, these chemicals cause environmental degradation, soil health decline, biodiversity loss, and serious health risks for farmers. Reports of farmers suffering respiratory issues and skin conditions after spraying are increasingly common.
Wilberforce Lartey, Program Director of CIKOD, explained the motivation behind the research. “We needed world-class, rigorous scientific research to validate what some farmers were discovering on their own,” Lartey stated. He emphasized the need for credible data to present to policymakers and farmers, providing a scientifically proven, safer alternative to synthetic chemicals.
The UENR study rigorously tested fermented human urine on carrot crops, a sensitive bio-indicator. Agronomist Kwadwo Gyasi Santo, who led the research, confirmed its efficacy. “The results were unequivocal—fermented human urine showed no negative impact whatsoever,” Santo reported. The research found that urine effectively suppressed weeds, maintained healthy soil, and produced carrots safe for human consumption.
This scientific validation builds on the experiences of farmers like Okpoapajor James, who began using urine as a herbicide out of desperation. James switched after a near-fatal incident involving synthetic chemicals. His success, initially met with skepticism, inspired the scientific inquiry. “I just wanted to stay alive,” James recounted, highlighting the personal stakes involved for many farmers.
The implications of this research are significant for Ghana’s agricultural future. It provides strong evidence for policymakers to consider integrating urine-based weed management into national agricultural policy. This shift could reduce reliance on harmful synthetic chemicals, improve farmer health, and promote sustainable farming practices. Decision-makers and agricultural organizations will now focus on scaling up adoption and educating farmers on this verified solution. The move towards agroecological methods could also enhance Ghana's food security and environmental sustainability.