EUGAP Supports Agriculture in Northern Ghana with Tricycles and Motorbikes Donation

To help improve farming practices and market access in northern Ghana, the European Union Ghana Agricultural Programme (EUGAP) recently donated 15 tricycles and 51 motorbikes to local agricultural departments. This move aims to enhance the delivery of extension services and simplify transportation for farmers in remote areas.

Supporting Agricultural Extension Services – EUGAP

The motorbikes were distributed to 14 District Agricultural Departments across several regions, including all 11 districts in the Upper West Region, as well as Sawla-Tuna-Kalba, North Gonja, and Mamprugu-Moagduri in the Northern and North-East Regions. These motorbikes will enable agricultural extension agents to reach even the most remote communities, ensuring that farmers can access crucial services.

Easier Transport for Farmers

The 15 tricycles were handed over to farmer-based organisations (FBOs) in the same districts, which were recognised during the 40th Farmers’ Day celebration. The primary purpose of the tricycles is to help transport farm produce to local markets. This will reduce post-harvest losses and increase farmers’ chances of earning a higher income. With improved transportation, farmers will be able to transport their products to market more easily.

Focus on Sustainable Agriculture

At the handover ceremony, the European Union’s Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Irchad Razaaly, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting sustainable farming and strengthening rural livelihoods in northern Ghana. He emphasised the importance of reliable transportation in enhancing agricultural productivity, particularly in remote areas.

Mr. Razaaly also mentioned that access to better transport is crucial for enhancing agricultural services, which ties into EUGAP’s broader goal of fostering a strong and inclusive local economy. He emphasised that agriculture plays a pivotal role in Ghana’s economic development, supporting farmers’ livelihoods and enhancing the country’s global trade.

Local Recognition and Regional Impact

The Upper West Regional Minister, Mr. Charles Lwanga Puozuing, praised the EU for its ongoing support and the positive impact it has had on the region’s agricultural development. He pointed out that the EUGAP has played a significant role in raising farmers’ incomes and promoting inclusive growth in the Northwest of Ghana. The program’s contributions have been crucial in creating a thriving local economy and sustainable livelihoods for the people.

Boosting Food Security and Production

Mr. Huudu Abu, the Upper West Regional Director of Agriculture, commended the EU for its support in improving extension services in the region. This has led to increased agricultural production and played a crucial role in enhancing household food security. With continued support, the region’s agricultural sector is set for even more growth.

Farmers’ Appreciation and Hopes for the Future

The FBOs that received the donations expressed deep gratitude for the EU’s contribution, especially in areas such as training on farming practices, post-harvest handling, and access to improved seed varieties. The farmers shared how the tricycles would help them transport workers to their farms and make it easier to move their produce to both homes and markets.

With these new resources, farmers are now better equipped to increase their productivity, improve their incomes, and help drive the growth of agriculture in northern Ghana.