Ashaiman: Mr. Samuel Adu Dankwah, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Irrigation Development Authority (GIDA), has expressed confidence that the rehabilitation of irrigation schemes will revolutionize Ghana's agricultural sector. Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for the rehabilitation of the Ashaiman Irrigation Scheme, Mr. Dankwah highlighted how this program represents a collective commitment to sustainable water management and irrigation development.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Dankwah emphasized that restructuring irrigation is a crucial component of Ghana's agriculture modernization agenda. He noted that the rehabilitation reflects the government's understanding that irrigation is essential, especially given changing rainfall patterns and the necessity to increase local food production due to population growth. He added that it provides farmers with the stability needed to produce consistently, regardless of unpredictable weather.
Mr. Dankwah explained that the Ashaiman Irrigation Scheme plays a significant role in Ghana's goal of ensuring food security and improving livelihoods through efficient, year-round agricultural production. The Ashaiman Irrigation Dam, constructed in 1968, originally had the capacity to irrigate about 800 hectares. However, due to population growth and funding challenges, the dam has been underutilized and now requires rehabilitation.
He pointed out that when the dam was built in 1968, the right bank canal was not constructed due to limited funding. Now, after 57 years, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is set to develop the site. In line with the project, GIDA places significant emphasis on farmer capacity building through training sessions aimed at enhancing farmers' knowledge in water use efficiency, crop management, and irrigation schedules.
Mr. Dankwah reported that 180 out of the 360 targeted farmers have already undergone training, marking a milestone in building human capacity to sustain the scheme and maximize its impact. Additionally, demonstration plots will be created at each project site to serve as practical learning platforms for farmers to adopt modern irrigation practices.
The GIDA CEO commended stakeholders, particularly MOFA and KOICA, for their efforts in rebranding the irrigation schemes to support the government's 'Feed Ghana' program. He also urged the contractor to deliver excellence in the rehabilitation project, working closely with GIDA's engineers and local authorities to ensure timely and standard completion.
In conclusion, Mr. Dankwah assured that GIDA is committed to managing irrigation infrastructure to support national development. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among government, development partners, and communities to achieve shared goals.
