The District Chief Executive (DCE) of Shai-Osudoku, Hon. Ignatius Godfred Dordoe, has reaffirmed the district’s strong commitment to boosting food security and enhancing agricultural productivity during the 41st Regional Farmers’ Day Celebration held in the Greater Accra Region. He described the occasion as a significant moment to honor the resilience and dedication of farmers and fisherfolk who continue to sustain the nation.
Hon. Dordoe highlighted this year’s theme, “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future,” noting that it represents a national call to support local food production and reduce reliance on imported commodities. He stressed that agriculture must drive inclusive growth, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods to secure long-term food access for all Ghanaians.
The DCE outlined major agricultural gains in the district, emphasizing the importance of the Corn Irrigation Scheme, which covers more than 4,000 hectares, including 3,750 hectares fully developed for rice and mango cultivation. The scheme produces over 8,000 metric tons of rice annually, with yields averaging 5.5 tons per hectare.
He also revealed that Shai-Osudoku hosts Ghana’s largest banana producer, exporting over 100,000 tons of bananas each year. The district additionally produces about 25,690 metric tons of mangoes annually, supporting more than 364 jobs along the value chain.
Livestock production remains a major strength in the district, with an animal population exceeding 45,000 and poultry farms housing approximately 680,000 birds. The DCE also noted that 937 farmers are engaged in livestock and poultry ventures, supported by initiatives such as the innovative Pig-in-Kind model, which empowers farmers through sustainable breeding systems.
As part of the government’s Feed Ghana Program, Hon. Dordoe announced that 126 farmer-based organizations, representing 3,913 farmers, including 1,715 women have been registered onto the national digital platform to enhance coordination and modernization of the agricultural sector.
He acknowledged the contributions of development partners, including the Ford Foundation, which supplied coconut seedlings for local schools, and the West Africa Food System Resilience Project, which is supporting more than 700 farmers. He added that key infrastructure improvements such as the Eastern Corridor Road and Afienya-Dawhenya stretch are enhancing market access and productivity.
Hon. Dordoe also expressed concern over increasing threats to agricultural land due to real estate expansion, calling for urgent measures to preserve green zones. He concluded by reaffirming the district’s commitment to youth employment, agribusiness growth, and national development, as award-winning farmers were honored for their contributions at the ceremony.
Source: Muhammed Faisal Mustapha
