The Upper East Regional Ministry of Food and Agriculture Director, Mr. Alhaji Zakariah Fuseini, has called on farmers in the region to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices to mitigate the effects of potential dry spells this year. To facilitate this, the ministry will disseminate critical weather information to farmers, guiding them on which climate-smart seeds to use for optimal yields and reduced food insecurity.
“To set the ball rolling, we will inform farmers about upcoming weather patterns, which is essential for effective farming,” he stated. “We are encouraging the use of specific climate-smart crops that can withstand dry conditions.”
Speaking exclusively to Word News after the inauguration of the Ghana National Association of Farmers and Fishermen in Bolgatanga, Mr. Fuseini noted that MOFA has partnered with the Ghana Meteorological Service to provide farmers with forecasts for the year. As part of this initiative, radio programs and one-on-one interactions with farmers have already begun.
Farmers have been receiving messages from the Meteorological Service, advising them to start land preparation in the first or second week of June 2025. “When I refer to climate-smart seeds, I mean early-maturing varieties that can withstand dry spells, ensuring farmers are not adversely affected,” he explained.
Mr. Fuseini also highlighted the dwindling ratio of farmers to agricultural extension officers in the region, making it challenging to reach all farmers. He urged them to consult district MOFA directors for assistance in selecting the right crops to cultivate for better results.
Source: mywordfmonline.com/Gaspard Ayuureneeya