The Metropolitan Chief Executive of the Sekondi-Takoradi Assembly says the agriculture industry requires sustainable measures by introducing innovative agriculture.
He says the Degradation of farmlands by illegal artisan miners (galamsey) and excessive use of agrochemicals are equally impacting the quality and yields of farmers.
The MCE indicated that It is not surprising that the number of young people who choose a career in farming is getting smaller and smaller.
He remarked that climate-smart agriculture has emerged as the surest way to promote food security and ensure resilience in our food systems.
Mr Mumin Issah made this known at the 2023 Farmers Day celebration in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis at Kansawrodo, under the theme, “Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience”
He said, “The interventions by the Government led by His Excellency, Nana Addo–Danquah Akuffo acknowledge the need for continued support and investments in the agricultural sector. Efforts have been made through the Planting for Food and Jobs I and Phase II to ensure farmers have access to resources, knowledge and infrastructure necessary for prosperity. These are aimed at creating an enabling environment that fosters innovation, empowers small–scale farmers and promotes equitable agricultural practices.”
He added that the five (5) year plan of Planting for Food and Jobs Phase 2 will focus on a shift from small-scale farming to relatively large-scale farming with the objective of changing the landscape of agriculture in Ghana and achieving food security. Ghana is expected to move its self–sufficiency progressively to attain self–sufficiency by 2028.
“This new model which is an alternative way of supporting farmers would contrast with the original Planting for Food and Jobs system where previously the government subsidized seeds and fertilizers for all registered farmers in the country and made payments to input distributors. The Planting for Food and Jobs Phase II on the other hand will be anchored on information technology and aggregators which would be relied upon to provide the needed linkages to the enrolled crop farmers,” he added.
The Metro agric director, Mr Daniel Asamani added that the best way to have food security is by reducing food waste and having infrastructure for an efficient production technique.
List of winners STMA
Overall best farmer – Osagyefo Rowel Stephen
Best youth farmer – Paul kumatia
Best Vegetable farmer – Anita Acquah
Best female farmer – Mary Yankey
Best Fisherman -Abraham Doku Tetteh
Best Livestock Farmer – Nicholas Howard
Best crop farmer – John Pakah
