Story By: W. K. Adusu-Ahorlu
THE MUNICIPAL Chief Executive (MCE) for Ayawaso Central, Hon. Rudolph Collingwoode-Williams, has called for renewed national commitment to modern agriculture and local food production as Ghana marked the 41st National Farmers’ Day.
The celebration, held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at the Accra Technical Training Centre (ATTC), brought together farmers, agro-processors, traditional leaders, Assembly Members, and other stakeholders.
Ayekoo to Farmers
Addressing the gathering, the MCE praised farmers and agro-processors for their hard work despite the many challenges they face. “Our gallant farmers continue to work tirelessly to feed the nation and keep industries running. To them, we say Ayekoo,” he said.
He encouraged farmers to adopt modern technologies and scientific farming methods to boost production and ensure long-term food security.
Theme Focuses on National Food Security
This year’s celebration was held under the theme, “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future.”
Hon. Collingwoode-Williams noted that the theme echoes Ghana’s long-standing call for self-reliance in food production, recalling past initiatives like the Operation Feed Yourself programme.
Government to Reduce Food Imports
The MCE expressed concern over Ghana’s high food import bill, which stands at about US$2 billion, including US$350 million spent on poultry imports in 2023.
He said the government of President John Dramani Mahama is determined to reverse the trend through the Feed Ghana Programme, a major part of the Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA).
The programme aims to:
Increase food production and reduce imports. Improve nutrition and food security.
Boost raw materials for local industries. Promote value addition and exports. Create jobs and wealth
Support for Schools and Local Farmers
The MCE disclosed that the Ministry of Food and Agriculture has released 25,000 bags of fertilizer for distribution to 413 schools under the Feed Ghana Programme. The aim is to improve yields on school farms across primary, junior high, and senior high schools.
He also highlighted government plans to raise Ghana’s poultry self-sufficiency from 12% to over 75% by 2028 through the “Nkoko Nketenkete” Poultry Project, which will supply each constituency with 10,000 day-old chicks, feed, and technical support.
Urban Agriculture in Ayawaso Central
Despite being an urban municipality, Ayawaso Central is actively promoting urban agriculture.
Activities include backyard and vertical gardening, rabbit and grasscutter rearing, snail farming, poultry, fish farming, mushroom production, and agro-processing.
In 2025, the Municipal Agriculture Department carried out several activities, including:
Vaccinating and treating livestock and pets; Training 35 women in fruit processing, and Training 40 women in soya utilization and weanimix.
Sensitizing maize processors on aflatoxin risks
Training 30 fish farmers in processing and marketing
Conducting over 500 home and farm visits to provide technical support.
Support for the 24-Hour Economy
Hon. Collingwoode-Williams also backed the President’s 24-hour economy initiative. He announced that the Assembly, together with the MP, Hon. Abdul Rauf Tongym Tubazu, plans to reconstruct the Mallam Atta Market and dedicate a section as a 24-hour market to help farmers sell their goods at all times.
Sanitation Still a Major Challenge
The MCE expressed concern over poor sanitation practices in the municipality. He urged residents to keep their environment clean and participate in the monthly cleanup exercises held on the first Saturday of every month.
Call for Improved Revenue Payment
He noted that the Assembly’s development efforts are limited by inadequate funds and appealed to residents to pay their property rates, business permits, and other levies to support local development.
Farmers Honoured
The ceremony also saw several farmers receiving awards for their contributions to food production.
The MCE congratulated the award winners and assured farmers who did not receive awards that their contributions are still highly valued.
He also thanked all individuals and organisations that supported the Farmers’ Day celebration.
A Message of Appreciation
Hon. Collingwoode-Williams ended his address with a message of goodwill:
“I wish everyone a happy Farmers’ Day celebration. May the good Lord bless us all.”
Source: Nationaltymes.com
