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In a significant display of appreciation, Mrs. Juliana Mensah, the District Director of Agriculture for Atwima Kwanwoma District, lauded the Ghanaian government’s efforts in supporting local farmers through the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) initiative. Speaking at the district’s 40th annual Farmers’ Day celebration held in Dida, she highlighted the program’s critical role in addressing key challenges faced by farmers and enhancing food security nationwide.
Mrs. Mensah emphasized that the PFJ phase two initiative is an essential boost to farmers, equipping them with high-quality seeds and farming inputs to increase productivity. “The government’s introduction of PFJ phase two is a significant support for our farmers,” Mrs. Mensah said. “This initiative directly addresses the pressing needs of our farmers, providing them with the resources they need to overcome challenges and increase yields.”
She further praised the government’s recent efforts to aid farmers affected by crop losses in the Northern Region, where maize and cash support were provided. “Such timely assistance demonstrates the government’s responsiveness to the needs of our farmers, particularly in regions where farming is threatened by environmental challenges,” she noted.
In addition to agricultural support, Mrs. Mensah called attention to environmental conservation, urging Ghanaians to refrain from indiscriminate tree cutting. Highlighting the critical role of trees in maintaining ecological balance, she stressed that deforestation exacerbates climate change, which has a direct impact on farming conditions. “If we want to see sustained agricultural growth and stability, we must protect our environment,” she said. “Trees are essential to our ecosystem, and cutting them without control disrupts this balance.”
Encouraging farmers to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices, Mrs. Mensah advocated for the use of drought-resistant crop varieties to mitigate the effects of unpredictable weather patterns. “Technology and innovation are vital for the future of farming,” she stated. “With the changing climate, drought-resistant crops can help secure food supplies even under challenging conditions.”
Adding to the dialogue, the chief of Dida, Nana Poku Kwarteng III, emphasized the importance of mechanized farming. He urged farmers to embrace modern agricultural techniques, pointing out that while traditional methods have been beneficial, mechanized farming is better suited to the demands of the contemporary agricultural landscape. “To increase productivity and ensure sustainable farming, it is time we embrace mechanization,” he said. “This shift will not only boost yields but also make farming less labor-intensive, enabling farmers to accomplish more with fewer resources.”
The Farmers’ Day event was well attended, with high-profile dignitaries including District Chief Executive for Atwima Kwanwoma, Hon. Prince Karikari, Member of Parliament and Deputy Defense Minister, Hon. Kofi Amankwaah Manu, as well as numerous farmers and local residents joining the celebration. The day recognized the hard work and dedication of farmers across the district, with awards presented to outstanding farmers for their contributions to food production and sustainable agriculture.
The Farmers’ Day celebration underscored the collective commitment of both government and local authorities to foster agricultural growth and support the welfare of farmers.
