The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture , and MP for Shama constituency Hon. Emelia Arthur presented a combine harvester, a tractor and 100 bags of fertilizers to the members of the Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana in the Shama district. The equipment and the fertilizers were received by the National President, Mr. Wepia Awal Adugwala and Nana Affo Kweku II ( Chief of Ohiamadwen community) the Shama District Focal person on behalf of the Farmers. This gesture was possible as a result of consistent engagement between the Minister the focal persons and the PFAG and also a fulfilment of the promise by the Minister. The Agric machinery were acquired from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture on a hire purchase basis for use by rice farmers in the district and beyond. This support will assist Ghana to achieve it’s long term objective of becoming self-sufficient in rice production. The PFAG leadership in Shama also appealed to the assembly to assist them with additional inputs such as wellington boots, and cocoa spraying machines for their activities. The machinery have been officially been commissioned to commence work for the farmers. Following the recent presentation of agricultural machinery to the Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) in the Shama District, National President Mr. Wepia Awal Adugwala has made several urgent appeals to the Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture.
Support for the Feed Ghana Project and Establishment of a Rice Processing Plant
Mr. Adugwala commended the Minister for the government’s support of the Feed Ghana Project, highlighting its potential to enhance food security and agricultural productivity in the community.
In a bid to bolster local rice production and ensure a steady market for farmers, Mr. Adugwala appealed to the government to purchase all locally produced rice for inclusion in the School Feeding Programme. This initiative would not only provide a reliable income stream for farmers but also promote the consumption of locally grown food among schoolchildren.
Also Mr Adugwala Call for Establishment of a Rice Processing Plant
To further support rice farmers and reduce post-harvest losses, Mr. Adugwala advocated for the establishment of a rice processing plant in the Shama District. Such a facility would enable farmers to process their harvested rice locally, adding value to their produce and enhancing their income.
Addressing Pollution from Galamsey Activities
Expressing grave concern over the environmental impacts of illegal mining, known locally as “galamsey,” Mr. Adugwala urged the Minister to take decisive action against these activities. He noted that galamsey operations have led to the pollution of water bodies, such as the Whin River, which serves as a primary irrigation source for rice farmers in the district. The contamination has rendered irrigation water unsafe, adversely affecting crop yields and threatening the livelihoods of farmers.
The Minister’s ongoing engagement with the PFAG and local leaders underscores a commitment to addressing the challenges faced by smallholder farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the region.