The Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John, has launched the Agricultural Growth and Improvement for Livelihood Enhancement (AGILE) project.
The initiative which is aimed at transforming agriculture in the Northern Region was launched in Tamale on Thursday.
Funded by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the AGILE project seeks to empower smallholder farmers, women, and youth while addressing critical challenges in the agricultural sector.
The Project, which rns from 2024-2027, has been allocated a budget of US$451,000.
Speaking at the launch, Ali Adolf John expressed deep appreciation to the Norwegian government for its commitment to agricultural development in Ghana.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy, especially in the Northern Region, where many depend on farming for the livelihood. This project will provide much-needed support to enhance productivity and sustainability,” he said.
The AGILE project seeks to improve water management systems to increase crop yields and boost incomes and help smallholder farmers gain access to financial services and markets for better sales opportunities.
AGILE also seeks to provide farmers with knowledge on good agricultural practices such as minimal tillage and drought-resistant cropping and rehabilitation of degraded lands through tree planting and the establishment of buffer zones.
The Minister emphasized the project’s alignment with Ghana’s Green Revolutionary Agenda and broader national development goals.
“This initiative is a significant step toward ensuring food security and environmental conservation in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” he noted.
The Norwegian Ambassador to Ghana, Ingrid Johansen reaffirmed her country’s commitment to Ghana’s agricultural growth.
“Our partnership with Ghana is built on shared goals of sustainability and prosperity. We believe the AGILE project will make a tangible difference in the lives of farmers and the entire region,” she stated.
Stakeholders, including farmers and agricultural experts welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism about its impact.
“We have struggled with unpredictable weather and market access issues for years. This project gives us hope,” said Issah Mahama, a farmer from Savelugu.
The Northern Regional Minister called for collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the success and sustainability of the project.
“Let’s work together to make this project a model for agricultural development in Ghana,” he urged.
With agriculture being a major livelihood source in the Northern Region, the AGILE project is expected to play a crucial role in improving productivity, enhancing financial stability for farmers and fostering environmental conservation.
Source: www.kumasimail.com/Joseph Ziem
