In a bid to enhance agricultural productivity and boost income for farmers in the Asokore-Mampong Municipality, Mr Kennedy Akwasi Kankam, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), has urged farmers to adopt modern farming practices and technologies.
Speaking at the 39th edition of the National Farmers Day celebration, Mr Kankam emphasized the need to move beyond traditional farming methods.
“The continuous reliance on rainfall for agricultural purposes has not been sustainable,” said Mr Kankam.
He stressed the importance of investing in technologies that provide sustainable water, enabling year-round farming to increase overall productivity.
The theme for this year's celebration was “Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience.”
Highlighting the impact of climate change on weather patterns, Mr Kankam underscored the necessity for farmers to embrace irrigation systems and modern agriculture machinery. “Farmers cannot continue to feed many people using the old farming methods,” he added.
Acknowledging government initiatives, Mr Kankam mentioned the Asokore-Mampong Municipality's collaboration with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
Through policies like Planting for Food and Jobs, they aim to support smallholder farmers, boost productivity, provide raw materials for industries, ensure food security, and generate employment opportunities, particularly for the youth.
Mr Kankam encouraged farmers to take advantage of these opportunities by approaching the Department of Agriculture at the Assembly for necessary information.
In recognition of their efforts, Mr Mohammed Akbar was awarded the overall best farmer in the Municipality, with thirteen other farmers also receiving commendations at the ceremony.