The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has raised concerns about challenges faced by the country’s agricultural sector and urged the government to shift focus from ceremonial events to addressing critical issues.
According to the association, while it was important to recognise farmers' efforts through awards, these celebrations have failed to translate into real solutions.
In a statement congratulating farmers on the occasion of the 40th Farmers' Day celebration, PFAG called for a redirection of resources meant for ceremonial events to address the issues that affect farmers on the ground.
"On this Farmers' Day, we call on the government to direct resources, attention, and energy toward resolving these pressing issues," part of the statement read.
PFAG stated that despite the dedication of these farmers, the government has failed to implement meaningful reforms.
"Farmers continue to struggle with high cost of production, inadequate agricultural infrastructure, insufficient irrigation facilities, inadequate storage, poor roads, and limited market infrastructure," the statement read.
The association also expressed disappointment in the government's response to the agricultural sector’s challenges.
"Over the years, the agricultural sector has faced numerous difficulties, and successive governments have largely responded with lip service," PFAG noted.
The association further criticised the government for its lack of action on pressing issues, including the high cost of inputs, poor roads, inadequate irrigation facilities, and limited access to mechanisation services.
The PFAG also raised concern about the government's inadequate response to the "galamsey" (illegal mining) crisis, which has severely impacted farmlands across the country.
"Illegal mining has devastated farmlands nationwide," PFAG stated.
"Celebrating Farmers’ Day without addressing the galamsey crisis, which endangers farmers' livelihoods, is hypocritical."
The association reiterated its call for immediate government action, including the declaration of a state of emergency on mining activities in river bodies, forests, and farmlands.
"We urge the government to implement a comprehensive land reclamation and restoration plan for all farmlands destroyed by illegal mining," PFAG said.
Latest Stories
-
Prince William announces Earthshot winners in Cape Town
41 mins -
Adomfe Epicenter achieves self-reliance after 17 years of support from The Hunger Project Ghana
48 mins -
It is either they are pretending or ignorant – Murtala Mohammed on NPP MPs reason for absense
56 mins -
Speaker had an agenda set up – Habib Iddrisu on Bagbin adjourning Parliament
1 hour -
Camfed Association supports 57,000 youth with bursaries to return to school
2 hours -
Bawumia launches Credit Scoring System for Ghana
3 hours -
Some public university lecturers march through Kumasi to campaign for NDC
3 hours -
Biden ‘rushing’ billions in aid to Ukraine as Trump win fuels uncertainty
4 hours -
PFAG urges gov’t to channel resources meant for 40th Farmers’ Day to tackle ‘galamsey’
4 hours -
Putin congratulates Trump, says he’s ready to speak to him
4 hours -
Health Services Workers issue ultimatum to gov’t over stalled agreement negotiations
4 hours -
Akufo-Addo approves upgrade of Districts, Municipalities
4 hours -
Damongo is secured for NPP – Jinapor declares
5 hours -
Electrochem Ghana Limited to employ 3,200 local workers in Ada for salt harvesting season
5 hours -
2024 University of Ghana Community Games launched
5 hours