Peasant farmers in the Volta Region have been engaged in a training program on Agroecology to better understand the harmful effects of agrochemicals on their lands and produce. The initiative, supported by international donors such as Eleventh Hour, calls for government support in promoting Agroecology as a sustainable alternative for farming practices.
At a stakeholders’ engagement in Ho, farmers from across the region gathered to hear from the National Executive Director of the Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana, Bismark Owusu Nortey. He emphasized the need to move away from agrochemical use due to its harmful impact on human health and farmland. He also mentioned that a project funded by international donors is underway to help farmers fully understand and adopt the Agroecology farming system.
The Volta and Oti Regional Representatives of the Peasant Farmers Association, Duncan Raymond Amoah, echoed these concerns and urged farmers in both regions to transition to Agroecology to protect their land and livelihoods from the adverse effects of chemicals.
Meanwhile, William Dzamefe, the Volta Regional Director of Agriculture, advised farmers to diversify their farming practices, especially in the face of climate change, which continues to affect agriculture in Ghana.
Some of the participants shared their experiences with our news team, expressing optimism about how Agroecology will improve their farming practices and enhance their productivity. One participant, Mercy Afedo, stated that the training would positively impact her farm operations.
The engagement team is expected to move to the Oti Region and other parts of the country to further spread the message and provide support for peasant farmers.