The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Hon. Eric Opoku, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding irrigation infrastructure as a key strategy to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure food security.
Speaking at a meeting with Regional Ministers, Hon. Opoku emphasized the urgent need to improve water access for farmers, particularly in drought-prone areas.
The meeting, which focused on strengthening agricultural policies, highlighted irrigation as a critical component of the government’s broader strategy to modernize farming and mitigate climate-related challenges.
Hon. Opoku noted that expanding irrigation systems would enable farmers to cultivate crops year-round, reduce dependency on erratic rainfall, and increase yields.
The initiative dubbed “Irrigation for Wealth Creation” will focus on plans to rehabilitate existing irrigation schemes and develop new projects in strategic agricultural zones.
According to Hon. Opoku, significant investments will be directed toward constructing small- and large-scale irrigation facilities, including boreholes, reservoirs, and canal systems.
The initiative aims to benefit smallholder farmers by providing consistent water supply and enhancing productivity.
Regional Ministers welcomed the initiative, citing the direct impact improved irrigation would have on food security and rural livelihoods.
They emphasized the need for efficient water management and maintenance of irrigation facilities to ensure long-term sustainability.
Beyond infrastructure, the discussion also touched on the need for training farmers on efficient water usage and modern irrigation techniques such as drip and sprinkler systems.
Hon. Opoku proposed collaborations with research institutions and development partners to introduce cost-effective irrigation solutions tailored to local farming needs.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on fast-tracking irrigation projects to support national food production goals. By prioritizing irrigation expansion, the government aims to build resilience in the agricultural sector, boost farmer incomes, and strengthen Ghana’s position as a food-secure nation.
