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The Rural Organization of Women farmers and Agro processing Development (ROWFAD) Ghana, a non-governmental organization in Sissala East, has organized a field trip to introduce a new crop variety, fonio, to farmers.
That would allow them to learn about its cultivation. Over 60 farmers selected from 10 communities attended the event, where they were educated on the Acres brand of Nano organic fertilizer. This fertilizer is intended for mass spraying of crops to enhance nutrient content. The event was on the theme: “Fostering Sustainable Agricultural and Food Security with Acres Nano Organic Fertilizer.” Mr. Yaana Yahaya, the Chief Executive Officer of ROWFAD, described fonio as the “Seed of Life,” known locally in Sissali as ‘Kankanlari.’He explained that fonio originates from the Sahelian region and thrives in harsh soil conditions with minimal rainfall.
Mr. Yahaya emphasized that fonio was a nutrient powerhouse, rich in amino acids and high in fiber, which could help combat various health issues. It is also a quick-maturing crop, harvested within six to eight weeks, making it a reliable food source in challenging times. Additionally, fonio is one of the fastest-cooking grains in the world. Mr. Yahaya announced that ROWFAD plans to cultivate 10,000 fonio crops in Sissala East and Wa East to enhance nutrition and boost income for marginalized farmers, particularly women.
Mr. Samuel Akuetteh, a Crops officer from the Department of Agriculture in Sissala East noted that, “It’s good that we have returned to what is important, as fonio is environmentally friendly. Our department will promote its production just as we have done with sesame. We will recognize it as part of the district’s crop categories and provide awards to encourage farmers to produce it.” He emphasized that fonio’s introduction was timely, as there was a growing global demand for organic products with low health risks.
Mr. Samuel Awiah, the Manager of Acres International Africa explained that “Acres organic fertilizer is 100 per cent organic. It restores the soil, aiming to bring our land back to the state it was in during our grandparents’ time. We urge farmers to use it alongside inorganic fertilizers.” He said the organic fertilizer had been certified by the University of Ghana.
Mr. Awiah added that, “It is designed to benefit our communities and increase farmers’ income as compared to inorganic fertilizer. It is far superior and more cost-effective.” Acres International Africa operates in Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, and other African countries. Mr. Musah Baduawie, chairman of the Kong Garden Association (KONSIFA), requested a wire mesh to prevent animals from entering their garden, where they cultivate vegetables and other crops.
Mr. Biyirah Bapoh Abdullah, secretary of KONSIFA, encouraged participation in dry season gardening as an alternative source of income. He also urged everyone to cultivate the new fonio crop on their farms to combat environmental degradation.
Source: GNA
