The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), in collaboration with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), has handed over essential infrastructure projects to beneficiary communities across the country.
The ceremony, held at Tordzinu in the Volta Region, marked a significant milestone in implementing the Emergency Support to Rural Livelihoods and Food Systems Exposed to COVID-19 (ESRF) project.
The project was initiated by government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and has made significant contributions to food security and the agricultural sector.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, said the ESRF project has implemented various interventions over the past three years: including providing Personal Protective Equipment to 26,700 supply chain actors; fertiliser and improved seeds to 24,782 smallholder farmers; cash transfers to 5,000 vulnerable households; training for 1,000 smallholder farmers; and provision of small-scale food processing equipment to 5,500 farmers.
Dr. Acheampong also revealed that the project has constructed farm tracks, water harvesting facilities, drying platforms and boreholes in various regions across the country.
These projects are expected to provide market access to more than 5,500 residents in surrounding communities and serve as a source of potable water in most of these communities.
The minister thanked all stakeholders involved in the project’s success, and particularly commended the Country Director of IFAD for her guidance and cooperation during implementation. The project’s managers have worked closely with beneficiary communities and individuals to ensure sustainability and ownership of the projects.
The handing-over ceremony is a testament of government’s commitment to empowering smallholder farmers and improving food security in Ghana. The projects are expected to have a significant impact on the lives of beneficiaries and contribute to overall growth of the agricultural sector.
“I am optimistic about the significant impact these interventions will have on the lives of our smallholder farmers and beneficiary communities,” said the minister. “These projects not only equip them with tools for agricultural success but also empower them to withstand challenges posed by COVID-19 and climate change.”
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture is encouraging beneficiary groups and communities to take charge of maintaining these facilities, recognising them as lifelines that will sustain their livelihoods. Joint efforts in maintenance will not only ensure longevity of the infrastructure but also foster a sense of community pride and resilience.
B&FT