Climate Resilient Agriculture; ESMA’s Farmers’ Day @40

The significance of value addition in agriculture, particularly in fisheries and aquaculture, has become increasingly important, offering the nation opportunities for additional revenue generation, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings. In highlighting this importance, Ghana’s National Farmers’ Day is a public holiday set aside to honor farmers for their dedication, hard work, and contribution to the development of the country. This honorary day was first introduced and observed in 1984. It is celebrated annually on the first Friday of December, but during election years, it is celebrated in November.

In light of this, on Friday, November 8, 2024, the Ejura Sekyedumase Municipal Assembly held its 40th National Farmers Day Celebration at Babaso, a prominent traditional community in Ejura. This year’s event was observed under the theme,

“Building Climate Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security.”

The occasion was graced by notable dignitaries, including traditional leaders and chiefs, government officials, and representatives of various agricultural and research institutions. Also in attendance were assembly members, heads of departments, units and other institutions, representatives from agricultural institutions, the press, award recipients, and members of the general public.

The ceremony was filled with insightful speeches from key stakeholders. Each address highlighted the day’s theme and the importance of building climate-resilient agricultural practices to ensure food security. Notable speeches were presented at the ceremony.

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Hon. Dr. Kingsley Osei, in his opening remarks, welcomed all participants to the ceremony. He also expressed his gratitude to the management of the Ejura Sekyedumase Municipal Assembly and the populace for such an occasion. He encouraged young people to see agriculture as a viable and rewarding career path.

He further highlighted the critical role of agriculture in ensuring food security and resilience in the face of climate change. He acknowledged the farmers’ efforts in sustaining food production and emphasized the importance of adopting climate-smart agricultural practices to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on crop yields.

In view of this, the government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) and other stakeholders, has provided farmers with development initiatives to empower them with adequate training and skills, as well as advisory services to enable them to make informed decisions to manage climate risks and adjust their planting and harvesting schedules, helping to build a sustainable future.

He also assured that the ESMA would continue to support local farmers by expanding infrastructure for irrigation, constructing storage facilities, and improving access to local and regional markets, to help reduce post-harvest losses and ensure that farmers always receive fair prices for their produce, especially during periods of climate-induced volatility.

Municipal Director for Agriculture, Mr. Ben Leo Addah, highlighted ongoing municipal initiatives aimed at improving agricultural productivity, particularly through farmer education programs on best practices in sustainable farming. He applauded the farmers for their resilience in facing challenges like changing weather patterns and noted how these efforts align with national policies to secure food resources. He therefore urged them to judiciously employ sustainable strategies to reduce the impact of climate change on the food system.

He also advised farmers to implement farming practices like the use of organic manure, organic pesticides, growing climate-resilient crops, and rearing disease-resistant animals.

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to outstanding farmers who had demonstrated excellence in various agricultural sectors. These awards recognized innovation, productivity, and dedication to sustainable practices. The top award of Municipal Best Farmer was presented to Mr. Ismaila Ibrahim, an exemplary farmer whose achievements set a high standard for others in the municipality.

Other awards were presented to farmers in specific categories such as best groundnut processor, pig farmer, cattle farmer, vegetable farmer, groundnut farmer, sheep farmer, cashew farmer, cowpea farmer, woman farmer, youth farmer, and others.

Each awardee received prizes, including farming equipment and fertilizers, intended to further support their efforts and inspire other farmers in the community. The awards segment underscored the Assembly’s commitment to motivating farmers and recognizing their vital contributions to the local economy.

The event concluded with an expression of gratitude from the Assembly to all who contributed to making the celebration a success. This year’s celebration not only honored hardworking farmers but also underscored the urgent need to protect agriculture against climate-related challenges, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for the farming communities in Ejura Sekyedumase Municipality.