The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has reiterated the government’s commitment to expand irrigation infrastructure and access to sustainable water systems, particularly in regions prone to drought.
According to him, the initiative plays a critical factor in building resilience to climate change and making all-year-round production possible.
Speaking under the theme “Building Climate Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security.” This significant event highlighted the dedication and hard work of farmers, fishers, and actors within the agricultural value chain while honouring the vital role the sector plays in the nation’s development and addressing the pressing challenges brought on by climate change.
This year’s theme emphasizes the critical need for a climate-resilient agricultural system to counteract the increasing threats from erratic weather, droughts, and emerging pests and diseases.
Reflecting on his tenure, Dr. Bryan noted the challenges faced since the launch of Phase 2 of the Planting for Food and Jobs program by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo-Addo in August 2023. He mentioned that the initiative encountered significant difficulties due to severe weather events, including flooding from the Akosombo dam and an unprecedented drought affecting eight northern regions.
Dr. Acheampong further stated that despite the existential challenges presented by climate change, the agricultural sector had seen growth from 2.6 percent in 2016 to an average of 5.7 percent between 2017 and 2023.
He attributed the positive change to strategic investments and programmes implemented by the government in the sector, with the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) as the main vehicle, which also improved farmers’ access to certified seeds, fertilisers, and mechanisation services.
“This resulted in increased crop productivity and production of targeted crops.
Yields of maize, rice, and soya beans, for example, increased by 135 percent, 67 percent, and 18 percent, respectively, while production of cereals, legumes, roots, and tubers increased by 106 percent, 68 percent, and 59 percent, respectively, from 2016 to 2023.
The country also achieved food self-sufficiency in major food staples, such as maize (122 percent), soya bean (106 percent), cassava (107 percent), plantains (133 percent), and yam (110 percent),” he explained.
To bolster agricultural resilience, several initiatives were proposed, including the promotion of climate-smart practices, expansion of irrigation systems, enhancement of agricultural extension services, and improved financial access for farmers. The introduction of the Ghana Agriculture and Agribusiness Platform (GhAAP) aims to connect stakeholders in the sector, streamline resource identification, and enhance data accessibility for informed decision-making.
While celebrating these achievements, Dr. Bryan called for ongoing vigilance and adaptability to tackle the long-term challenges posed by climate change. A draft Long-Term Climate Resilient Agricultural Development Strategy for Ghana (2025-2050) is being developed to reinforce the country’s dedication to sustainable agricultural practices.
The Awards Night ceremony ended with a warm tribute to the diligent farmers and fishermen, whose efforts are crucial for food security and economic growth. “May God bless our farmers, fishermen, and the people of Ghana,” Dr. Bryan prayed, as the celebration closed with optimism for a flourishing agricultural future.
Ghana | Atinkaonline.com
