By Yussif Ibrahim
Obuasi (Ash), Oct. 17, GNA – AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine has called for stronger collaboration among government, farmers, agribusinesses and other stakeholders to promote agricultural development, strengthen food security and create sustainable economic opportunities in the Adansi enclave.
Dr. Samuel Boakye Pobee, Managing Director of the Mine, said agriculture had the potential to diversify the local economy, improve livelihoods and create employment opportunities beyond the mining industry.
He said this at the maiden Obuasi Agrifair organised by the Mine in partnership with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and other stakeholders, on the theme: “Building Sustainable Agriculture for Food Security and Economic Growth in Obuasi.”
Dr. Pobee said the fair was intended to bring together farmers, agricultural enterprises, buyers, government agencies and other stakeholders to explore business opportunities, exchange ideas and establish lasting partnerships.
He said the transformation of agriculture required coordinated efforts to improve production, processing and marketing, adding that stronger private-sector participation could help address challenges confronting farmers.
The Managing Director said the Mine remained committed to initiatives that went beyond economic returns to promote resilient livelihoods and sustainable community development.
He said food security was not only about producing adequate food but also ensuring that farmers could market their produce and obtain better returns.
Dr. Pobee expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council, the Obuasi Municipal and Obuasi East assemblies, the Ghana Enterprise Agency, the Obuasi Trade Show Consortium, traditional authorities and other stakeholders for supporting the initiative.
Mr. John Dumelo, Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, said the government was supporting farmers with water facilities, fertilisers and solar-powered systems to boost production and make agriculture more attractive, particularly to the youth.
He said the government was also strengthening the National Buffer Stock Company to purchase surplus produce from farmers, helping to reduce post-harvest losses and provide a more reliable market for their products.
Mr. Dumelo said efforts were underway to establish farm centres to support agricultural activities, with some expected to be ready next year.
He said improved production alone was insufficient to ensure farmers benefited from their investments, stressing the need for efficient transportation and processing systems to move produce to markets and add value to agricultural products.
The Deputy Minister said the Ministry was collaborating with relevant agencies to address transportation challenges and encourage the establishment of processing facilities to reduce food losses.
The Agrifair brought together various players in the agricultural value chain to exhibit farm produce, technologies and innovations, while providing opportunities for networking and business development.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Yussif Ibrahim
Email: [email protected]