By Albert Allotey
Accra, Nov. 12, GNA – Chief Inspector Samuel Yao Dzotsi of the Ghana Police Service has urged farmers to remain committed to their farming to increase food production for local consumption and export.
He said by so doing, they would be contributing to the socio-economic development of the country through the earnings of foreign exchange.
Chief Inspector Dzotsi gave the advice after he had received the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) ‘Overall Best Farmer’ award at this year’s 40th National Farmers and Fishers Day celebration in Accra.
The Day was on the theme: “Building Climate-Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security.”
Chief Inspector Dzotsi, who is based at the Tesano Police Depot in the Okaikwei South Sub-Metropolitan District has cultivated an acre each of plantain, maize, and cocoa, and maintains a five-acre rice field and nine-acre cocoa plantation in the Oti Region and has six permanent workers.
He was presented with a certificate, a motorised tricycle, Wellington boots, a knapsack sprayer, cutlasses, and compost bags in recognition of his contributions to agriculture and food security in Accra.
Mrs Elizabeth K.T. Sackey, the Accra Metropolitan Chief, speaking at the event commended farmers and fishers for their dedication and significant role in advancing the nation’s development.
She expressed concern over the impact of changing weather patterns, prolonged dry spells, and floods on agriculture, particularly as farming in sub-Saharan Africa relies heavily on rainfall.
Mrs Sackey noted that a World Bank projection had indicated that by 2030, climate change could push an additional 100 million people into poverty, posing severe risks to the agricultural sector.
She called for the adoption of climate-smart agriculture as a strategic response, referencing the government’s Planting for Food and Jobs initiative.
She highlighted AMA’s support for the programme through public awareness campaigns and fertilizer distribution to local farmers, adding that the Assembly staff had undergone training to enhance farmer registration and data collection efforts using modern technology.
The AMA Chief Executive urged the public to maintain peace in the lead-up to the December 7, 2024, elections and advised on preventive measures against cholera, particularly in high-risk areas such as Odawna.
She recommended frequent handwashing, drinking treated water, consuming thoroughly cooked food, and ensuring proper waste disposal to reduce the spread of the disease, while urging individuals with symptoms to seek medical care promptly.
Chief Inspector Dotsi expressed gratitude to the AMA for the recognition and gave assurance of expanding his farm to further contribute to Ghana’s food production.
Mr Kodwo Ennin Fynn, Director of Agriculture at AMA, stressed the importance of climate-smart agricultural practices, commending the Assembly’s promotion of sustainable approaches such as backyard farming, water harvesting, and organic farming.
He applauded AMA staff for their commitment throughout the year and encouraged residents to seek guidance from the Department of Agriculture to enhance their agricultural yields.
Other institutions and personalities from the metropolis that received awards were Ladlink School (Best Educational Institution). Addo Quarcoo (Best Hook and Line Fisherman), Reginald Bannerman Quaye recognized as (District Best Livestock Farmer), Richel Adeline Boohm (Best Agricultural Extension Agent), and John Nii Arday Ofoliquaye (Best Physically Challenged Farmer),
Present at the event were the AMA Coordinating Director, Douglas N.K Annoful; Finance Director, Abeiku Amissah; Abola Mantse, Nii Ahene Nunoo, who was the chairman of the occasion; chiefs, Queen Mothers, as well as other traditional leaders, students, security service representatives, departmental heads, and AMA staff.
GNA