Bono East farmers demand urgent support over market access, farm inputs and climate challenges

Bono East farmers are demanding immediate government intervention as challenges with market access, farm inputs, and climate change continue to threaten agricultural productivity and livelihoods. The farmers raised concerns over unreliable markets, limited access to farm inputs, and the growing impact of climate change, which they say are severely affecting their work. James Adu, the Regional Director of Agriculture, described the situation as serious, particularly in the Kintampo North farming communities.

Mr. Adu noted that the lack of machinery, such as tractors, is hindering farming activities. He stated, "Farmers in this region are facing serious challenges with access to reliable markets, farm inputs, and the effects of climate change, which are affecting productivity." Mr. Adu also pointed out that storage remains a major challenge, with many farmers forced to keep their produce in their homes due to the absence of proper warehousing facilities. He appealed to the government to fast-track the establishment of District Farmers Service Centres to help absorb produce and reduce post-harvest losses. Awel Alhasaan, a farmer, lamented the lack of tractors, fertilisers, and irrigation systems, appealing to the government for support.

These concerns were highlighted during a farmers' durbar in the Kintampo North Constituency, where Oyster Agribusiness Limited honoured 49 farmers with farm tools and equipment. Elizabeth Bidzakin, the CEO of Oyster Agribusiness, said the company has supported farmers in the Bono East and other regions of the north for the past eight years through training and provision of inputs. She added that the organisation aims to expand into poultry, fish, and vegetable farming while creating job opportunities for the youth.