The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has recently formed an agro-ecology group in the Western North Region. This new group aims to encourage local farmers to use organic materials for making fertilisers.

By promoting organic farming, the PFAG hopes to help farmers improve their practices and produce healthier crops.

Let us look at the goals of this group, the benefits of organic farming, and how it plans to support farmers in the region.

Key Takeaway

• The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana has formed an agro-ecology group in the Western North Region to promote organic farming, educate farmers, and encourage the use of local materials for fertiliser production.

A New Focus on Organic Farming

The PFAG believes that training and educating farmers about organic farming is very important. This belief is what led to the creation of the agro-ecology group. During the official launch of the group in Sefwi-Wiawso, Mr. Wepia Addo Awal Adugwala, the President of the PFAG, shared his thoughts. He mentioned that the group would help raise awareness about using local and organic materials in farming.

“By forming this group, we are giving our members a chance to learn about the importance of organic farming,” he said.

This is a vital step towards encouraging sustainable practices that benefit both the farmers and the environment.

Collaboration is Key

One of the main goals of the agro-ecology group is to bring together various stakeholders. This includes farmer groups, civil society organisations, and the media. By collaborating with these groups, the PFAG hopes to spread the message of agro-ecology and organic farming throughout the region.

Mr. Adugwala stated, “We believe that the collaboration and support from all actors are critical to promoting agro-ecology and organic farming.” By working together, they can share knowledge and resources, making it easier for farmers to adopt these new methods.

Support from Farmers and Community

After the inauguration, the farmers and participants expressed their excitement about the agro-ecology movement. They agreed that using organic farming methods is essential for the future of agriculture in their region. Many pledged to adopt these practices to improve their farming outcomes.

To ensure the group runs effectively, a seven-member committee was elected. This committee will oversee the activities of the agro-ecology movement. Their responsibilities include making sure the group is sustainable and effective in achieving its goals.

Goals of the Committee

The committee will have several key tasks. They will focus on reinforcing learning among farmers, promoting the sale of organic materials, and providing clear guidelines on how to use these materials in farming. This support will help farmers transition to organic practices more easily.

Mr. Sarfo Mensah, the Chairman of the committee, spoke on behalf of his fellow members. He promised to educate more farmers about the benefits of organic farming. “Our goal is to make sure that all farmers in our community understand the importance of using organic methods for sustainable agriculture,” he said.

Benefits of Organic Farming

Organic farming has many advantages. It not only helps in producing healthier food but also benefits the environment. By using local materials, farmers can reduce their reliance on chemical fertilisers, which can harm the soil and water sources. Organic practices can also improve soil health, leading to better crop yields over time.

Furthermore, by promoting organic farming, the PFAG aims to empower local farmers. This initiative will help them increase their knowledge and skills, enabling them to produce high-quality crops that can compete in the market. The agro-ecology group will serve as a platform for sharing experiences and best practices among farmers.

Conclusion

The establishment of the agro-ecology group by the PFAG marks a significant step towards promoting sustainable farming practices in the Western North Region. By focusing on organic methods and fostering collaboration among farmers, civil society, and the media, this initiative aims to create a healthier agricultural environment.

The commitment of the newly elected committee and the enthusiasm of local farmers show that there is a strong desire to embrace these changes. With continued education and support, the agro-ecology movement has the potential to transform farming in the region, benefiting both the farmers and the wider community. Through these efforts, the PFAG hopes to lead the way in creating a more sustainable and productive agricultural landscape in Ghana.