Government Prioritizes Agricultural Growth with New Initiatives.

ASSIN KRUWA: The Reverend John Ntim Fordjour, Member of Parliament for Assin South Constituency, affirmed the government's dedication to advancing the agricultural sector, as demonstrated by the numerous initiatives being implemented across Ghana. These initiatives aim to boost agricultural productivity, enhance farmer income, and ensure national food security.According to Ghana News Agency, Rev Fordjour highlighted the success of the "Planting for Food and Jobs" initiative, which has significantly improved the fortunes of farmers and is making steady progress. He emphasized that these initiatives reflect the government's commitment to empowering farmers, improving livelihoods, and driving economic growth. Rev Fordjour made these remarks during the Farmers Day Celebration at Assin Kruwa in the Central Region, under the theme 'Building Climate-Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security,' stressing Ghana's focus on adopting agricultural practices that tackle climate change challenges.The event saw Mr. Francis Amissah awarded as the overall best farmer, receiving a tricycle, two knapsack spraying machines, six cutlasses, and six wellington boots. Other awardees included Mr. Samuel Kwabena Mensa, recognized as the best crop farmer, and Mr. John Akyen, awarded for being the best physically challenged farmer. The MP extended his congratulations to the winners and wished them success in their future endeavors.Mrs. Felicia Ntrakwah Amissah, District Chief Executive, announced that the district, under the second phase of the "Planting for Food and Jobs" program, received 180 bags of fertilizers for farmers, 860 bags for vulnerable farmers, and 150 bags of 6,000 kilograms of rice seeds for rice farmers. Additionally, the district received 78,392 oil palm seedlings for alternative livelihood projects, 10,000 palm seedlings, and 1,000 mango seedlings from the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA). She commended the farmers, fisher folks, and value chain actors for embracing the policy and utilizing the oppor tunities created by the supportive environment for agricultural development.The District Assembly's efforts also supported those in aquaculture, providing 50 tarpaulins, 50 plumbing fittings, 300 bags of fish feed, and 53,500 catfish fingerlings to enhance fish farming. The DCE congratulated the awardees and extended her best wishes.Mr. Rasford Afari Obeng, District Agric Officer, encouraged the youth to seize the opportunities presented by the second phase of the "Planting for Food and Jobs" program to secure a better future. The event was attended by local chiefs, the traditional council, clergy, and departmental heads of the District Assembly.