During the 40th National Farmers’ Day celebration on Friday, November 8, 2024, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo stressed the need for climate-resilient agriculture in Ghana, citing climate change as a major threat to food security and agricultural productivity.
Under the theme “Building Climate-Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security,” President Akufo-Addo outlined his administration’s approach to mitigate the effects of erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts, and rising temperatures on Ghana’s agriculture.
“Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it is a pressing reality that our farmers confront every day,” he declared, highlighting agriculture’s vulnerability to climate extremes and their impact on food production and the livelihoods of millions of Ghanaians. The President emphasized the urgency, stating, “We must adopt proactive and innovative approaches to equip our farmers with the knowledge, tools, and resources they need to build resilience.”
Central to this approach is the second phase of the Programme for Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ 2.0), launched in August 2023. Designed to support farmers in adapting to changing climatic conditions, PFJ 2.0 includes measures aimed at securing Ghana’s food supply.
A key component is the Ghana Agriculture and Agribusiness Platform (GhAAP), a digital tool providing farmers with real-time updates on weather, pest and disease surveillance, and food security trends. “This platform is more than just a tool; it is a lifeline for our farmers,” Akufo-Addo emphasized.
Water management is another critical area in building climate resilience. Recognizing the limitations of rain-fed agriculture, the government has expanded irrigation infrastructure under PFJ 2.0, developing facilities across Northern, Upper East, Upper West, and Eastern Regions, covering 4,870 hectares.
These projects enable year-round cultivation, reducing dependency on seasonal rainfall. Furthermore, the construction of 232 solar-powered boreholes will irrigate an additional 3,144 hectares, using solar energy to support sustainable, year-round crop production.
The President also highlighted the importance of soil health in resilient agriculture. Soil management programs are promoting organic practices, soil testing, and sustainable fertilization methods.
By encouraging practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping, and organic amendments, these programs aim to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers and improve soil resilience. “Healthy soil is the foundation of agriculture, and we are determined to protect it,” he affirmed.
To address crop vulnerability, Ghana has invested in developing and distributing climate-resilient crop varieties in collaboration with research institutions.
These include drought-resistant and heat-tolerant strains of maize, cassava, and sorghum, as well as pest-resistant vegetables. “By making these crop varieties accessible, we are equipping farmers to continue thriving despite climate uncertainties,” Akufo-Addo noted.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) also forms a vital part of the government’s strategy. To combat the growing prevalence of pests and diseases due to changing weather, the government introduced IPM practices that minimize environmental impact.
Training for farmers covers methods like using natural predators, crop rotation, and physical barriers, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides.
The President stressed the importance of community resilience and capacity building. Through various training programs, farmers are learning climate-smart techniques to manage water, adjust planting schedules, and adopt conservation practices. “Climate resilience goes beyond infrastructure; it requires knowledge and skills,” he noted.
Agroforestry and reforestation also contribute to Ghana’s resilience strategy. Agroforestry practices integrate trees into farming landscapes, reducing soil erosion, enhancing soil fertility, and providing shade.
The Planting for Exports and Rural Development (PERD) module under PFJ 1.0 has supported the planting of tree crops like cashew, rubber, and oil palm, benefiting the economy and stabilizing the environment. “Trees act as carbon sinks, helping us combat climate change,” Akufo-Addo explained.
Finally, post-harvest infrastructure is essential to mitigate crop spoilage risks from climate fluctuations. The government is building aggregation centers and packhouses, with a 6,000-metric-ton silo in Hwehwee for storing staple crops.
These facilities reduce post-harvest losses, ensuring food availability during off-seasons. “These facilities reduce post-harvest losses and protect farmers from unpredictable climate conditions,” he remarked.
President Akufo-Addo concluded by reaffirming Ghana’s commitment to sustainable agriculture: “By investing in water management, soil health, climate-resilient crops, and infrastructure, we are positioning Ghana as a model of climate-smart agriculture on the continent.”
As Ghana faces the challenges of climate change, the government’s initiatives aim to create an agricultural sector that thrives, supporting the livelihoods of millions and ensuring a sustainable future.