The Farmers’ Day Celebration, inaugurated in 1985, serves as an annual tribute to famers. Over the decades, it has evolved from a modest event into a grand occasion, symbolizing gratitude for the agricultural community’s dedication to their work. This year’s event under the theme “Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience,” resonates deeply with the evolving dynamics of agriculture. It reflects a forward-thinking approach, emphasizing the need for innovative, technology-driven solutions to address the challenges of ensuring a consistent food supply while building resilience in the face of a changing climate.
The MCE and his entourage arrival at the grounds
The program which was hosted at Dominebo No. 2 witnessed the gracious participation of traditional leaders, dedicated staff of the Assembly, farmers, Heads of departments, heads of the security agencies and the esteemed Municipal Chief Executive, whose leadership is instrumental in steering the municipality’s unwavering development trajectory.
Chairing the occasion was the reprrsentative of the Omanhene of Anhwiaso traditional Area Nana Kojo Somiah II.
The Chiefs and beautiful Queens from the three paramountcy graced the occasion with their glamourous apparel.
Municipal Director of Agriculture’s Speech: the Municipal Director of Agriculture’s address highlighted on the department’s commitment to engaging directly with farmers through home and farm visits. He indicated that Agricultural Extension Agents play a crucial role in providing on-site guidance, disseminating information about modern farming practices, and shedding light on the challenges faced, particularly the inadequacy of Extension Agents and the dilapidated Operational Areas quarters. He said the growing demand for personalized guidance and support from farmers exceeds the capacity of the existing workforce, hindering the department’s ability to effectively reach all farming communities.
The Municipal Director of Agriculture delivering his speech.
MCE’s Speech: the 39th Farmers’ Day Celebration was marked by an insightful address from the Municipal Chief Executive, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting farmers through various programmes and projects. He focused on key initiatives such as the One District, One Warehouse, PFJ, RFJ, PERD, Aquaculture for Food and Jobs, Special Rice Initiative, Cocoa Improvement Programme, Ghana Exchange Commodity and PFJ Phase II.
The Chief Executive underscored the government’s dedication to enhancing post-harvest management by initiating the construction of a 1000 -ton capacity warehouse at Sefwi Bekwai-Naama which aims to provide farmers with centralized storage facility, reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring food security. The honorable MCE said the PERD initiative was a comprehensive effort by government to diversify agricultural production by supplying farmers with coconut seedlings and oil palm seedlings and other export-oriented crops and it aims to empower farmers economically and contribute to rural development.
Picture of the honorable MCE during his keynote address
Awards
The Farmers’ Day Celebration reached a crescendo with the heartening presentation of awards to 19 deserving farmers who have exhibited exceptional dedication, innovation, and contribution to the agricultural community. The awards were distributed across various categories, reflecting the multifaceted contributions of farmers. The 19 recipients were honored with items tailored to their specific needs and accomplishments.
The Overall Municipal Best Farmer award went to Mr. Bismark Arthur, a farmer at Adukrom. Among the items he received were: Tricycle, 1 piece of wax print, 8 cutlasses, 4 wellington boots, 2 Knapsack Sprayer, 1 Raincoat and certificate.
Mr. Peter Kyemaalo Tanya who was adjudged the Municipal 2nd Best Farmer award also received award package comprising 1 motorcycle, full piece of wax print, 8 cutlasses, 4 wellington boots, 2 Knapsack Sprayer, 1 radio, 1 raincoat and a certificate. Also Mrs. Mercy Baidoo who won the Municipal Best Woman Farmer category was awarded with 1 cylinder & burner, ½ piece of wax print, cooking utensils, 6 cutlasses, 2 wellington boots, 2 Knapsack Sprayer, 1 radio, 1 raincoat, and certificate.
In clothe is the Overall Municipal Best Farmer receiving his certificate
In smock is the Municipal 2nd Best Farmer receiving his certificate as presented by the chairman of the occasion
Exhibits beautifully displayed by farmers.