The government, led by President John Dramani Mahama, continues to place agriculture at the heart of its national reset programme.
Volta Regional Minister Mr James Gunu made this known at the opening of the 41st National Farmers’ Day celebration in Ho, noting that the focus on agriculture is intended to drive economic recovery through higher productivity, innovation and resilience.
He emphasised that farmers, fishers, processors and all players along the agricultural value chain remain the foundation of Ghana’s economy. He added that the Volta Region remains fully committed to strengthening agriculture as a key force for economic transformation.
This year’s National Farmers’ Day and agricultural fair, scheduled for December 5 in the Volta Region, is themed “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future.”
According to Mr Gunu, the theme aligns strongly with Ghana’s broader goal of improving food security, expanding agro-industries and ensuring sustainable livelihoods. He noted that hosting the national celebration in the Volta Region highlights the region’s increasing contribution to food production, as well as the strategic importance of the Volta Economic Corridor initiative in advancing agriculture, agro-processing, logistics and export capacity.
He said the region continues to assert itself as a major hub for rice cultivation, aquaculture, cassava processing, vegetable farming and livestock production.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Madam Emelia Arthur, Chief Director Madam Marian Kpakpa described this year’s theme as both an appeal to action and a tribute to farmers for their exceptional commitment.
She stressed the importance of the fisheries sector, describing it as a key pillar of the national food system. Fish, she said, accounts for almost 60 per cent of the animal protein consumed in Ghana, providing daily nourishment for millions of households.
The Minister noted that the Ministry is aware of the challenges confronting fisherfolk—from rising operational costs and the impact of climate change to persistent post-harvest losses. She said that even with these obstacles, fishers continue to innovate and “uphold the dignity of the profession.”
She added that this resilience is driving major ongoing reforms, including strengthening the Fisheries Management Act, expanding aquaculture zones, improving the governance of premixed fuel, and investing in modern landing site facilities.
Madam Arthur reiterated that farmers “drive the economy” and remain central to Ghana’s efforts to ensure sustainable food production. “Government recognises that the future of our food system depends on the responsible stewardship of our natural resources including climate smart agriculture, and sustainable fishery management practices.”
The Chief Director commended farmers for their perseverance and pledged continued collaboration and support from the Ministry.
Togbega Patamia Dzekle VII, Paramount Chief of the Battor Traditional Area and chairperson of the ceremony, also praised farmers and called for strong measures to protect the environment from degradation.
The event brought together municipal and district chief executives, heads of decentralised state institutions, students, and key stakeholders across the agricultural value chain.
Source: GNA
