Mr. Fredrick Owusu, a 46-year-old driver from Akyem Akakom, has been awarded the 2024 Overall Best Farmer of Atiwa West District in the Eastern Region at this year’s National Farmers Day celebrations at Abomosu, showcasing his dedication and hard work in agriculture.
The 40th edition of National Farmers’ and Fishermen’s Day, which was held under the theme “Building Climate Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security,” highlighted the importance of adapting to climate change to ensure food security.
The awards featured various categories to recognize outstanding contributions to agriculture, including Best Poultry Farmer, Best Agriculture Business Operator, Best Small Ruminant Farmer, Best Tree Crop Farmer, Best Vegetable Farmer, Best Cereal Farmer, and Best Institution in Agriculture, among others.
Ajara Madi, a 32-year-old from Akyem Abisem, was adjudged the first runner-up in the district and Kwadwo Dompreh, a 45-year-old from Akyem Abomosu, secured the 2nd runner-up position.
Esther Sapomaah was honoured as the Best Woman Farmer, and Francis Nutsugah, a 38-year-old from Akyem Akropong, was recognized as the Best Youth Farmer.
All nine awardees received certificates of merit, tricycles, motorcycles, household appliances, agricultural tools and equipment, fertilisers, bags of maize, Agrochemicals, and wax cloth, among others.
Speaking at the celebration, the Atiwa West District Chief Executive, Douglas Paddy Amponsah, said agricultural development remained a topmost priority of the government, and it was evident in the implementation of several programmes geared towards increasing the productivity of crops and livestock.
He mentioned that the Eastern Region had over the years demonstrated total commitment to the implementation of these programs, and the contributions of farmers in the region has been immense.
He said the NPP has supported the local economy of Atiwa West District with the distribution of hundreds of thousands of seedlings to farmers. He encouraged farmers to adopt new farming practices and also implement the use of modern technology to increase productivity and reduce costs.
Addressing the farmers, the NPP Parliamentary Candidate for Atiwa West Constituency, Madam Korkor Asante, reiterated that Dr Mahamudu Bawumia is committed to celebrating Ghana’s hardworking farmers.
She said Dr. Bawumia’s vision and initiatives include supporting farmers and promoting agricultural growth to reduce the cost of living, ensure food security, and contribute to Ghana’s economic development.
Lawyer Korkor Asante called on constituents, especially farmers, to rally behind the NPP government and vote for Dr Bawumia and herself to continue implementing policies that promote sustainable development and prioritize long-term growth and environmental stewardship for generations to come.
The chief of Akyem Abomosu Pomasi, Osaberima Ameyaw II, commended government efforts for making farming its priority by improving storage and food preservation, increasing efficiency in farming operations, and providing personal benefits to enhance community development.
The Atiwa West District Best Farmer, Fredrick Owusu, for his part, lauded government efforts to motivate and recognise farmers to produce more for the country. He urged the youth to engage in farming to promote the country’s food security and resilience.
