By Yussif Ibrahim
Nyaboo (Ash), Dec. 5, GNA – Dr Ebenezer Ekow Aidoo, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Asante Akim Central, has praised farmers across the municipality and the country for their immense contribution to Ghana’s development, describing them as the “backbone of the nation’s economy.”
Delivering his address at the 41st National Farmers’ Day celebration held at Nyaboo, Dr. Aidoo extended warm appreciation to farmers, traditional authorities, stakeholders, and sponsors for their roles in making the event successful.
He noted that agriculture continued to play a pivotal role in national growth, employing about 65 percent of Ghanaians directly and indirectly.
The sector, he said, remained the foundation of Ghana’s economic transformation since independence.
Dr. Aidoo said the Assembly remained committed to creating an enabling environment that ensures farming becomes more profitable, efficient, and attractive to the youth.
He called for stronger collaboration among government, the private sector, and local organisations to support farmers.
This year’s celebration, on the theme: “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future,” reflects government’s determination to add value to agricultural produce, create jobs and boost Ghana’s competitiveness on local and international markets.
Touching on government initiatives, the MCE highlighted President John Dramani Mahama’s recently launched “Nkoko Nketenkete” project designed to boost local poultry production and reduce dependence on imported chicken.
Under the initiative, three million birds will be distributed to 60,000 households nationwide, with beneficiaries receiving feed and technical support.
Asante Akim Central has already received 10,000 chicks, currently being prepared for distribution.
Dr. Aidoo encouraged residents to patronise Made-in-Ghana products to help reduce excessive imports and protect the cedi from further pressure.
He also commended the Minerals Commission’s Alternative Livelihood Project for supplying 30,000 oil palm seedlings and 1,500 coconut seedlings to farmers in the municipality.
In all, 19 outstanding farmers were honoured for their exceptional performance in various categories.
Mr Karim Ayaawe, a 65-year-old farmer from Atunsu was adjudged the overall Municipal Best Farmer, taking home a tricycle, bags of cement, knapsack sprayer, wellington boots, and other inputs.
The 41st Farmers’ Day celebration brought together farmers, traditional authorities, Assembly officials, and community members who joined in recognising the indispensable role of Ghana’s farmers in national development.
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei