Transforming Agriculture in Gushegu: Climate-Resilient Technologies Make a Difference
In the Gushegu Municipality of the Northern Region, farmers are experiencing a positive shift in their agricultural practices thanks to the introduction of climate-resilient technologies. These innovations, spearheaded by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, have not only improved crop yields but also enhanced the overall resilience of farming communities against climate-related challenges.
Mr. Iddrisu Ibrahim, a Lead Farmer under the Sustainable Farming Programme at Limo, shared his experience with the initiative. He mentioned that before the project was introduced, farming was done without any structured agronomic practices, leading to poor results. However, since the implementation of climate-smart techniques three years ago, there has been a noticeable improvement in both yield and household stability.
One of the key practices adopted is the fertilizer application-at-planting method. Mr. Ibrahim emphasized how this technique has significantly strengthened the crops’ ability to withstand droughts and storms, resulting in better harvests. He noted that his household has seen a drastic improvement over the past three years, no longer struggling with basic needs like food. He is now able to provide for his three children, wife, and mother.
This transformation was highlighted during a field demonstration day organized by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT. The event brought together farmers, agricultural scientists, and extension officers to evaluate various agronomic practices introduced in the area.
Dr. Patricia Amankwah Yeboah, an agricultural scientist with the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, explained that the field demonstration was part of broader efforts to enhance the resilience of smallholder farmers through improved agricultural technologies. She mentioned that the project is being implemented across the Northern, Upper West, and Savannah Regions, where farmers are supported with technologies to improve productivity and adapt to changing climatic conditions.
Some of the key technologies introduced include early-maturing and high-yielding crop varieties, fertilizer application at planting, the use of an agro-advisory tool known as the cropping calendar for climate information dissemination, and intercropping systems. Dr. Yeboah explained that the cropping calendar helps farmers know the right time to apply fertilizer and avoid disruptions. It is also linked to pest monitoring tools, allowing farmers to be alerted immediately in case of a pest outbreak.
The project also includes training-of-trainers workshops to build local capacity and ensure the sustainable adoption of these technologies. Dr. Yeboah commended the farmers for their commitment and encouraged them to continue implementing the improved practices to boost food security.
Mr. Kingsley Ofori, an Agriculture Extension Officer for the Zinido Operational Area in the Gushegu Municipality, praised the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT for complementing government efforts in promoting sustainable agriculture. He stated that the interventions were helping farmers better understand climate change and adopt strategies to mitigate its effects.
He expressed appreciation for the continuous support from the implementing partners in advancing sustainable farming practices in the municipality. Other farmers who spoke to the Ghana News Agency during the demonstration called for the sustainability of the project to improve their livelihoods and address malnutrition, hunger, and deprivation in the area.