The Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) has donated GHC 1,000,000 to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) in support of the 39th National Farmers Day celebration. This significant contribution will be awarded to the 2023 National Best Farmer during an awards ceremony at the University of Mines and Technology (UmaT) in Tarkwa, Western Region.
According to Ghana News Agency, this year’s National Farmers Day Celebration, themed ‘Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience,’ is an annual event honoring farmers for their crucial role in national development. The celebration aims to leverage innovation and technology to enhance the organization of the national award event. ADB, a long-standing lead sponsor of the event, continues its commitment to supporting agriculture in Ghana.
Deputy Managing Director of ADB PLC, Eno Ofori-Atta, during the cheque presentation, emphasized the bank’s dedication to fostering investment in the agricultural sector. This commitment is aimed at improving food security, supplying raw materials to agro-based industries, and generating employment opportunities for the youth in Ghana.
Deputy Minister of MoFA and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mr. Yaw Frempong Addo, highlighted the celebration as a moment to recognize the sacrifices and perseverance of Ghana’s farmers, who have ensured consistent food supply despite various challenges. He acknowledged the current high food prices but assured that food remains available and accessible, with government efforts underway to ensure its affordability.
Mr. Frempong outlined this year’s planned activities, which will include a five-day agricultural products exhibition at the ministerial enclave, known as ‘Agrifest,’ from November 27 to December 1, 2023. The event will feature agribusinesses from all 16 regions of Ghana, showcasing the nation’s efforts in food security. A special desk will also be established to explain and promote participation in the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program, aimed at reducing food importation.
Additionally, a float through the principal streets of Accra is planned for awareness creation, along with a farmers’ market at Independence Square, offering affordably priced local food items like yam, cassava, plantain, rice, and poultry products.
While district and regional exhibitions and awards will continue as usual, the national event will be an indoor awards night at UmaT, Tarkwa, where nominees will receive their awards. Mr. Frempong called on Corporate Organisations and stakeholders to support the celebrations, inviting donations to ensure the success of this year’s event.
