The Ministry of Food and Agriculture, in collaboration with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), has handed over essential infrastructure projects under the Emergency Support to Rural Livelihoods and Food Systems to beneficiary communities in the South Tongu district of the Volta region.
The ceremony, held at Tordzinu, marked a significant milestone in the implementation of the Emergency Support to Rural Livelihoods and Food Systems Exposed to COVID-19 (ESRF) Project.
The project, initiated by the Government of Ghana in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, has made significant contributions to the country’s food security and agricultural sector.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong noted that the ESRF project has brought about various interventions over the past three years, including providing Personal Protective Equipment to 26,700 supply chain actors, fertilizers and improved seeds to 24,782 smallholder farmers, cash transfers to 5,000 vulnerable households, training for 1,000 smallholder farmers, and provision of small-scale food processing equipment to 5,500 farmers.
The minister also revealed that the project has seen the construction of farm tracks, water harvesting facilities, drying platforms, and boreholes in various regions across the country.
These projects are expected to provide market access to more than 5,500 residents in surrounding communities and serve as a source of potable water in most of these communities.
“I am optimistic about the significant impact these interventions will have on the lives of our smallholder farmers and beneficiary communities. These projects not only equip them with tools for agricultural success but empower them to withstand challenges posed by COVID-19 and climate change”, the minister said.
He further thanked all stakeholders involved in the project’s success and particularly commended the Country Director of IFAD for her guidance and cooperation during implementation.
The project’s managers have worked closely with beneficiary communities and individuals to ensure sustainability and ownership of the projects.
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture is therefore encouraging beneficiary groups and communities to take charge of maintaining these facilities, recognizing them as lifelines that will sustain their livelihoods adding that joint efforts in maintenance will not only ensure the longevity of the infrastructure but also foster a sense of community pride and resilience.
The handing-over ceremony is a testament to the government’s commitment to empowering smallholder farmers and improving food security in Ghana.
