The Volta Region representative on the Council of State, Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple, has praised Ghana’s farmers and fishers as central to the nation’s stability and prosperity.
Speaking at the official opening of the National Agricultural Fair and Exhibition at the Ho Sports Stadium on Tuesday, December 2, Mr Kwamigah-Atokple described agricultural workers as the “quiet architects of national stability.”
He highlighted the sacrifices they make daily, from rising before dawn to working under harsh conditions, to feed the nation and support communities.
The Council of State member used a simple anecdote about a waakye seller to illustrate the broader agricultural ecosystem. He said when one link in the chain falters, the entire system is affected.
Mr Kwamigah-Atokple dismissed comparisons between farmers and doctors, saying the two professions complement each other.
“While doctors save lives at critical moments, farmers prevent countless critical moments by providing nourishment long before illness begins. Agriculture is not a competition but a collaboration that sustains human life,” he said.
The keynote also highlighted government initiatives to boost agriculture, including the Agriculture for Economic Transformation agenda, Farmer Service Centers, the Farm Bank Initiative, and expanded support for agribusinesses.
He noted persistent challenges like high input costs, limited mechanization, restricted credit access, and post-harvest losses.
He praised the Volta Region’s fertile lands, reliable water resources, and hardworking population, saying the area is well-positioned to lead national food production.
Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, reinforced the importance of agricultural development, noting this year’s fair theme: “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future.”
He described the fair as a platform to showcase innovation, inspire action, and celebrate progress in Ghana’s agriculture, while urging continued support from corporate Ghana.
Vice President of the Volta Regional House of Chiefs, Togbe Patamia Dzekle VII, emphasised the sustainable use of natural resources.
“Society cannot survive without produce from farms and rivers,” he said, calling on agricultural workers to safeguard the nation’s food systems.
The opening marked the start of activities for the 41st National Farmers’ Day, scheduled for Friday, December 5, in Ho.
The event attracted the Volta Regional Minister, heads of agencies, municipal and district executives, stakeholders across the agricultural value chain, and students, highlighting the collective effort required to advance Ghana’s agricultural agenda.