Winrock International, as part of its efforts to revolutionize agriculture in the Upper East Region, has trained 35 agro-dealers on Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM), a sustainable agricultural technology aimed at enhancing soil fertility and increasing crop production, especially in the face of soaring input costs, particularly fertilizers.
The four-day training held in Bolgatanga sought to empower the agro-dealers to expand their businesses, ensuring that they can effectively reach farmers in remote communities, with a special focus on women and youth in agriculture.
Speaking during the training, the Project’s Activity Coordinator, Mr. Phillip Atiim indicated that the initiative not only sought to familiarize Agro-dealers with the concept of ISFM but also aimed at enhancing their overall business development skills and understanding of gender dynamics.
Mr. Atiim explained that ISFM as a technology can significantly boost crop production for smallholder farmers, especially given the current challenges associated with expensive fertilizers.
“Integrated Soil Fertility Management is a sustainable development approach that can play a pivotal role in addressing the needs of our smallholder farmers, ensuring increased crop yields and improved soil health,” he stated.
The training program incorporated theoretical sessions and a field practical session to provide a holistic learning experience for the participants.
The field practical session took place at the Pwalugu irrigation site in the Talensi district and also at some key Agrodealer shops in the Bolgatanga central district where Agro-dealers had the opportunity to witness ISFM technologies in action.
The ISFM technique was demonstrated, showcasing its efficacy in improving soil fertility and promoting sustainable agriculture.
Participants were able to observe firsthand how these technologies could be applied, gaining valuable insights that would greatly enhance their business and their ultimate role as technology disseminators.
Some participants spoke to the media, expressing their gratitude for the training and highlighting its practical relevance to their work.
They emphasized that the program not only equipped them with knowledge of ISFM but also enhanced their communication skills, particularly in educating smallholder farmers on the judicious use of fertilizers and improved seeds.
“Being able to effectively communicate the benefits of ISFM to our clients is crucial in promoting its adoption among smallholder farmers,” remarked one of the Agro-dealers.
Another one also said, “This training has not only made us knowledgeable about ISFM but has also transformed us into key influencers in our communities, positively impacting farming activities of women and youth farmers in particular.”
The Agro-dealers were selected from four districts including Garu, Builsa South, Talensi, and Bawku West.
The ADSIP Project is being implemented by Winrock International under the Enabling Farmers for Agricultural Transformation (EFAT) and has funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Source: A1radioonline.com|101.1MHz|Moses Apiah|Ghana
