The District Chief Executive for Upper Manya Krobo in Eastern Region Joe Sam has appealed to farmers to exercise restraint over deteriorating roads in the district.
It is worthy to note, that the district is one of the food basket areas of the region and the country at large.
However, Upper Manya Krobo district currently does not have a single tarred road.
Sadly,roads to various vibrant farming communities are in deplorable conditions affecting transportation of farm produce to market centers.
Addressing farmers at the 39th farmers Day celebration, the DCE said ” deplorable state of most of our roads in the district is an issue of grave concern as it has direct impact on movement and agriculture activities”.
The assembly took steps to reshape the roads to temporary ameliorate plight of commutters however the project has halted.
“For the months past, the assembly had to halt reshaping works as a result of the rainy season which hampered the progress of work.
However ” I want to assure the members of the general public that reshaping works with start very soon in various communities to facilitate carting of farm of farm produce, and bring the needed respite to our people. I wish to therefore implore all of you to exercise restraint ” The DCE said.
The DCE, Joe Sam also listed land tenure system, limited access to markets, limited access to credit, severe effect of climate change, post harvest losses, high cost of inputs and low return of investment as some challenges affecting the local farmers
He however said the introduction of Planting for Food and Jobs policy is changing the narrative hoping the second phase of the program will bring more relief to farmer.
53 year old Amadu Alhassan, was adjudged District best farmer in Upper Manya Krobo .Eleven others including a physically challenged were also honoured in the district during the 39th Farmers Day celebration.
The District Best Farmer Amadu Alhassan called on the government to urgently address the Fulani menace in the area.
He said the fulani herdsmen and their cattle continue to destroy farms while subjecting female farmers to sexual abuse.
Apart from the security concerns, Alhassan pointed out the lack of essential agricultural machinery, particularly tractors, making it challenging for farmers to engage in effective commercial farming.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
