The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for New Juaben South, Ransford Owusu Boakye, has expressed optimism that ongoing government initiatives and investments in the agricultural sector will reverse the sharp decline in livestock and crop production recorded in the municipality in recent years.
The New Juaben South municipality has suffered severe setbacks across major agricultural value chains, resulting in reduced productivity and income for farmers.
Cattle production, decreased significantly after many herdsmen fled the area, dropping from 1,017 tonnes in 2022 to just 86 tonnes in 2024.
Cassava production also fell drastically due to drought, declining from 85.7 million tonnes in 2022 to 55 million tonnes in 2024, while pig production suffered from outbreaks of swine flu, reducing from 360 in 2022 to 142 in 2024.
Hon. Owusu Boakye, however, believes the trend can be reversed with renewed commitment and targeted investment.
“A nation with a secure food supply is less vulnerable to external pressures and shocks. Initiatives like ‘Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future’ aim to boost local production, improve food availability, empower farmers, and contribute to national growth and security,” he said.
The MCE pointed out the government’s strong focus on agricultural modernisation as outlined in the proposed policy direction under the NDC administration.
He said the 2025 budget allocation of GH¢1.5 billion for the Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA) would support flagship programmes such as the Feed Ghana Programme and the Grains Development Project.
Additionally, the establishment of Farmer Service Centres and Farm Banks is expected to provide farmers with critical support in inputs, financing, training, and technology adoption.
Touching on localised initiatives, he praised the recently launched Akoko Nkitinkitin Project, designed to boost domestic poultry production through improved breeds.
“This initiative provides resilient, faster-growing birds and opens opportunities especially for women and youth. It is a practical example of how targeted support can uplift families and diversify incomes,” he noted.
The MCE further stressed on the critical role of women and youth in driving agricultural transformation and pledged the Assembly’s continued support for agribusiness development, investment in storage and processing, and collaboration with stakeholders to address ongoing challenges.
New Juaben South Municipal Agriculture Officer, Tharzia Numako Akwetey, in her remarks, said the agriculture sector offers vast opportunities for job creation, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
“Agriculture is not just about farming; it is about building a thriving economy. Value addition and processing can reduce post-harvest losses, increase farmer incomes, and improve access to nutritious food,” she said.
She encouraged young people and women to explore agribusiness opportunities, adding that increased investment will boost economic growth and enhance food security.
A highlight of the celebration was the announcement that a young farmer from New Juaben South has been selected as an awardee for the National Best Youth Farmer Award and is in Ho to receive national recognition.
Nayilimol Amos, 31, was adjudged overall Municipal best farmer, alongside 14 others who received various awards including tricycles, poly thanks, spraying machines, cutllasses and other agrochemicals.
The Municipal Best Farmer, appealed to government to rehabilitate deplorable roads to the Communities on the Obuortabiri mountains and provide other basic amenities such as safe drinking water, CHPS compound and school to motivate youth and reduce rural urban migration.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
