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Poor planning, lack of support undermine crop yields in Northern Ghana – Agricultural expert warns

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A former agricultural officer and chief research assistant at the Environmental Science Department of C.K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences (CKT-UTAS), Joseph Aminini Akansor, has expressed deep concern over the persistently low crop yields in northern Ghana, attributing the problem to poor planning, limited access to agricultural information, and weak institutional support.

Speaking on A1 Radio, Mr. Akansor said that seasonal planning failures are among the leading reasons farmers experience poor harvests year after year.

“Over the years, we have failed to plan for the seasons, and that is the major reason why some farmers don’t make it,” he said.

90% of Farmers Disappointed After Each Season

Mr. Akansor referenced a 2019 research study conducted at CKT-UTAS, which revealed that about 90 percent of farmers in the region return from each farming season disappointed due to low productivity. The study identified lack of adequate planning as the most significant factor contributing to these poor outcomes.

“The findings suggest that 90 percent of the farmers who go into production come back disappointed because of low yields, and that was strongly attributed to the planning process,” he explained.

Unpredictable Weather and Lack of Timely Information

The expert also highlighted climate unpredictability as a growing challenge. He noted that early rains in 2025 caught many farmers off guard, particularly those who had not yet prepared their fields. He linked this problem to poor access to real-time agricultural information, which hampers farmers’ ability to adapt to changing weather patterns.

“Farmers need access to timely, accurate information to make informed decisions. Without it, they’re always playing catch-up,” he said.

Shift to Hybrid Seeds and Smart Agriculture Urged

Mr. Akansor emphasized the importance of adopting improved seed varieties and smart agriculture practices to increase yields.

“We are preaching smart agriculture. Smart agriculture will tell you to use improved seeds,” he stated.

He warned that many farmers still rely on outdated or traditional seeds, which are not suited for modern challenges like erratic rainfall and degraded soils. He encouraged a move toward climate-smart agriculture that promotes innovation, efficiency, and resilience.

Soil Fertility Declining Across Northern Ghana

Soil samples collected from the five northern regions have revealed a significant decline in soil fertility, Mr. Akansor disclosed. He advised farmers to apply appropriate fertilizers to replenish nutrients and increase productivity.

“It’s established beyond reasonable doubt that our soils have lost considerable fertility, and so we have to use fertilizers,” he said.

Proper Land Measurement and Tractor Use Needed

He also underscored the importance of accurate land measurement, effective ploughing techniques, and engagement with skilled tractor operators. These, he said, are critical components of serious, business-minded farming.

“We advise farmers to actually treat farming as a business. Get a tractor operator who knows how to plough well, and always seek agricultural information,” he advised.

Shortage of Agricultural Extension Officers Hurting Farmers

A major bottleneck identified by Mr. Akansor is the shortage of agricultural extension officers. The high farmer-to-extension officer ratio means that many farmers do not receive the expert guidance they need to implement modern practices.

“There are many trained extension agents who are home and unemployed. They’ve graduated from agricultural colleges and are ready to serve,” he said.

He called on the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to recruit more extension agents and introduce a national deployment system, similar to that used for teachers, to ensure consistent support for farmers across the country.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga

MP Simon Aworigo pushes for completion of abandoned Navrongo Youth Resource Centre

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Member of Parliament for Navrongo Central, Simon Akibange Aworigo, has renewed his call for the completion of the abandoned Navrongo Youth Resource Centre, emphasizing its vital role in youth empowerment, sports development, and skills training in the Upper East Region.

Speaking on the urgency of the matter, the MP reaffirmed his commitment to reviving the project, which has remained dormant for years despite its strategic importance to the youth of Navrongo and surrounding communities.

“The Youth Resource Centre, if completed, will serve as a vital springboard for the many talented young people in Navrongo and the Upper East Region,” Mr. Aworigo said.

Abandoned Yet Essential: A Project for Youth Development

The Navrongo Youth Resource Centre was initiated under a previous administration to create a multipurpose facility for sports, training, and youth empowerment programs. However, construction was stalled, leaving the facility in a state of neglect.

Mr. Aworigo revealed that he has filed several petitions and follow-up letters to key institutions, including the National Youth Authority, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and other relevant state agencies, urging them to prioritize the completion of the project.

Consistent Advocacy for Constituency Development

“The future of Navrongo lies in empowering its youth. I’m not resting on this issue. I’ve been engaging the authorities consistently and will keep doing so until we see results,” he stated.

The MP stressed that youth development and job creation are at the heart of his agenda, and completing the centre would not only provide recreational infrastructure but also contribute to skills development and employment opportunities.

Community Outcry Over Neglect

Many residents of Navrongo have also raised concerns over the abandonment of the centre, expressing disappointment in the lack of progress. For the youth, the facility represents more than just a building—it is seen as a symbol of opportunity, growth, and hope.

“This centre could’ve been a place for training, community building, and launching careers. Its abandonment sends the wrong message to the youth,” one resident said.

Hope for Renewed Action

Mr. Aworigo assured constituents that he remains focused on delivering results and will continue to lobby through parliamentary channels and stakeholder engagements until the project is revived.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga

ICOUR Director commits to supporting farmers

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The newly appointed Managing Director of the Irrigation Company of the Upper Region (ICOUR), Mr. Dominic Anarigide, has pledged to champion the interests of farmers in Northern Ghana, especially within the Upper East Region, by advocating for protective tariffs on agricultural imports and building strategic partnerships to improve farming outcomes.

Mr. Anarigide made the commitment during a courtesy meeting with the regional leadership of the National Association of Farmers and Fishermen (NAFF), led by its Chairman, Mr. Mohammed Shaibu, at the ICOUR office in Tono, Navrongo.

Enhancing Farmer-Government Collaboration

The meeting aimed to establish a collaborative framework between ICOUR and NAFF to promote agricultural productivity, dry season irrigation farming, and profitability for local farmers and fisherfolk. Mr. Anarigide stressed that protecting locally grown produce from the influx of cheaper foreign agricultural goods was critical for sustaining livelihoods in the region.

“We are committed to working with the government and institutional partners to implement protective tariffs that shield local farmers from unfair competition,” he said.

Promoting Commercial Agriculture and Mechanization

Mr. Anarigide urged farmers to shift towards commercial agriculture, leveraging mechanization services, input credit schemes, and dry-season irrigation. He highlighted the importance of a strong farmer association to push for better policies and programs, noting the numerical strength of farmers across the region.

“We discussed a wide range of issues, including capacity building, market access, and credit arrangements. A unified and business-minded farmers’ association can be a powerful force for change,” he added.

NAFF Responds with Support

In his remarks, NAFF Chairman Mohammed Shaibu welcomed the Managing Director’s vision, stating that the association is ready to collaborate with ICOUR to improve farming practices, expand irrigated lands, and enhance yields throughout the region.

“We appreciate the new director’s proactive approach and pledge our full support to achieve shared goals in agricultural development,” Mr. Shaibu said.

Toward Sustainable Agricultural Growth in Upper East Region

The engagement marks a strategic step toward revitalizing irrigation agriculture in Northern Ghana, particularly around the Tono Irrigation Scheme, and building resilient farming systems that are competitive both locally and globally.

Mr. Anarigide emphasized that ICOUR remains open to partnerships with both public and private actors that are geared toward empowering farmers and strengthening food security in the region.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga

MP for Navrongo Central urges unity for development following MCE confirmation

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The Member of Parliament (MP) for Navrongo Central, Simon Aworigo, has commended Assembly Members, traditional authorities, and key stakeholders for their collective efforts leading to the successful confirmation of Madam Faustina Abulu as the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Kassena-Nankana Municipal Assembly.

Speaking at the confirmation ceremony, Mr. Aworigo emphasized that the unity demonstrated throughout the process reflects a shared commitment to the development of Navrongo and its surrounding communities.

“Navrongo is what we are all standing for. It’s all about the development of Navrongo. So at every point in time, whatever we do, we must put aside personal interests and remain guided by that,” he stated.

Prioritizing Development Over Politics

The MP called on all political actors, civil society groups, and citizens to prioritize development over personal and partisan interests. He stressed that progress in Navrongo depends on collaboration, shared vision, and sustainable initiatives that address the region’s long-standing challenges.

Mr. Aworigo outlined key development concerns, including youth unemployment, agricultural support systems, rural electrification and improved road infrastructure, especially during the rainy season

He advocated for the deployment of machinery to assist farmers and open up remote areas, especially now that the rainy season has begun, to ensure agricultural productivity and rural connectivity.

Strengthening the MP–MCE Partnership

The MP pledged to leverage parliamentary platforms, government programs, and development partnerships to support the municipality. He also urged Madam Abulu to collaborate closely with his office, traditional leaders, and stakeholders to implement inclusive and impactful policies.

“As she begins her tenure, I am confident that together, we can address the needs of our people and foster sustainable growth,” Mr. Aworigo stated.

A New Chapter for Kassena-Nankana Municipality

The confirmation of Madam Faustina Abulu as MCE marks a significant milestone for the Kassena-Nankana Municipality. Expectations are high for enhanced collaboration between the political leadership, traditional authorities, and development actors to tackle pressing challenges and uplift the socio-economic wellbeing of residents.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga

Constitution Review Committee praises residents for localizing governance dialogue in Upper East Region

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The Executive Director of the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) and prominent member of the Constitution Review Committee, Professor H. Kwasi Prempeh, has commended chiefs, teachers, and local stakeholders in the Upper East Region for transforming constitutional dialogue into a powerful, grassroots-driven conversation about local development and governance.

Speaking on A1 Radio on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, following a stakeholder engagement in Bolgatanga, Professor Prempeh described the experience as “deeply organic and enriching,” noting that the discussion extended beyond abstract legal jargon to reflect real-world concerns affecting ordinary citizens.

“People didn’t just talk about governance in a general sense,” he said. “They linked the Constitution to school dropout rates, teenage pregnancy, natural resource management, and community livelihoods. These are not just legalistic concerns—they are lived realities.”

Reframing the Constitution as a Tool for Development

Professor Prempeh emphasized that Ghana’s 1992 Constitution must be viewed as more than a legal document. Instead, he called on citizens to see it as a social contract—a framework that shapes the distribution of power, public accountability, and socioeconomic development.

“It’s a social, political, and developmental instrument. The Constitution distributes power, outlines responsibilities, and creates frameworks for inclusive growth,” he explained.

During the dialogue, a local teacher raised an example of how poor governance in the mining sector, particularly the mismanagement of natural resources like gold, has led to male student dropouts, thereby disrupting community stability and even marriage prospects for young women.

“That’s a constitutional matter, too,” Professor Prempeh affirmed. “The governance of resources affects social outcomes and must be addressed within constitutional reform.”

A Citizens-Led Conversation, Not Just Legal Reform

Professor Prempeh lauded the unique approach of community stakeholders, especially traditional leaders and educators, who grounded the discussions in real-life challenges. He noted that participants engaged not as legal scholars but as active citizens whose lives are directly impacted by Ghana’s system of governance.

“These conversations were authentic and profound,” he said. “They reminded us that constitutional review is not just about laws, but about lives.”

A Nationwide Listening Tour for Inclusive Constitutional Reform

The Constitution Review Committee continues its nationwide consultation tour, ensuring that voices from every corner of the country help shape Ghana’s democratic future. The engagement in the Upper East Region sets a strong precedent for how localized conversations can drive inclusive constitutional reforms and foster grassroots democracy.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Moses Apiah|Bolgatanga

We don’t just talk, we shape mindsets – Sandra Sore

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Social impact leader and education advocate Sandra Sore is calling for a shift in how rural youth are supported in Ghana. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and mindset transformation over sporadic donations, especially in underserved communities.

Speaking on the Equal Voices Program on Sunday, June 15, Sandra shared how her organization, Napiness, is working directly with children from Primary 4 through Senior High School, with a strong focus on the Nabdam District in Ghana’s Upper East Region.

“I’ve lived here. I’m a princess here. I know the people, I know their stories. I’ve sat with students like Regina—brilliant kids who simply lack the right opportunities or guidance. They’re not lazy or uninterested; they just haven’t been given a reason to believe in their potential,” Sandra said.

From Donations to Transformation: A New Model for Rural Education in Ghana

Sandra was clear that giving out books or school supplies, though sometimes necessary, is not the organization’s primary strategy.

“I’ve seen it with my own eyes—people come, donate books, then leave. Moments later, the kids are making paper airplanes out of them. It’s not disrespect. They just don’t know why the books matter. No one has explained it to them. For many, school is something you go to simply because your mother said so.”

Instead, Napiness focuses on mentorship, literacy engagement, and reshaping young minds. The organization has built a vibrant network of young mentors who share their own journeys, providing relatable role models from similar rural backgrounds.

“We tell them, we’re just like you. We’ve made mistakes too. But here’s what we’ve learned, and here’s what your life could look like if you take education seriously.”

The Star World Contest: Making Reading Fun and Competitive

To spark interest in reading, Napiness launched the Star World Contest in 2023—a district-wide spelling and literacy competition. The event brought together all 21 Junior High Schools in the Nabdam District, making it the largest literacy competition in the region, as reported by JoyNews.

“Reading is the foundation of everything in education. But you can’t just yell at kids to read more. That’s just noise. You have to make it exciting—something they look forward to,” Sandra explained.

The contest has quickly become a regional literacy success story, creating excitement around reading and helping children discover the power of knowledge.

A Quiet Revolution in Rural Education

With the growth of spelling competitions and the expanding circle of local mentors, Napiness is quietly transforming the educational landscape in rural northern Ghana. For Sandra Sore, this is not just a project—it’s a personal mission driven by her deep roots in the region.

“Napiness is more than just a youth initiative. It’s a quiet revolution led by someone who never stopped believing in where she came from.”

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Keziah Porepeya Nsoh|Bolgatanga

Elect MMDCEs to deepen local democracy – NPP U.E Regional chairman advocates at CRC engagement

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The Upper East Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Lawyer Anthony Namoo, has renewed calls for the election of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCES) on a partisan basis as part of Ghana’s ongoing constitutional review process.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement organized by the Constitution Review Committee (CRC) in Bolgatanga, Lawyer Namoo described the current mode of appointing MMDCEs by the President as a system that fuels intra-party conflict, centralizes excessive power in the presidency, and weakens participatory governance at the grassroots.

Citing the abandoned 2019 referendum effort by the Akufo-Addo administration—intended to amend Article 55(3) of the 1992 Constitution to allow for partisan elections of MMDCEs—Mr. Namoo said that consensus is now building again and must be acted upon.

“In 2019, President Nana Akufo-Addo had the courage to push for it, but there wasn’t enough national consensus. It’s time we revisit it. Electing MMDCEs on a partisan basis would be the best way forward for Ghana,” Lawyer Namoo argued.

He noted that the current system has encouraged winner-takes-all politics and has led to divisiveness within political parties due to opaque appointments while discouraging hard work at the grassroots.

“Some party members don’t work during elections because they know they can lobby their way into appointments. With elections, everyone from the polling station level to the MP will work harder,” he added.

The NPP Chairman also pointed out that making the MMDCE position elective would help reduce the monetization of politics, stating that the burden of campaign financing often falls on a few individuals, leading to internal rancor.

On the oft-raised concern of potential friction between a president and an opposition-aligned MMDCE, Mr. Namoo dismissed it, saying healthy political competition would rather enhance development.

“Even now, assembly members are supposed to be non-partisan, but we all know they come from political camps and still work together. So let’s not fear opposition MMDCEs. If they fail to cooperate, their people will vote them out,” he said.

He also recounted some violent instances stemming from MMDCE appointments in the region, including Navrongo and Binduri, where internal disputes over nominations led to chaos.

“We’ve had cases where the confirmation process led to people being beaten. If MMDCEs are elected, it will eliminate this confusion and violence,” he stressed.

Lawyer Namoo concluded his submission by emphasizing that democracy must evolve, and giving the people power to choose their local leaders through elections is a step in the right direction.

“After 30 years of constitutional democracy, we shouldn’t be afraid to let the people decide. It’s only about 300 positions—this won’t cripple the President’s power. It will rather make the system fairer and more accountable.”

The Constitution Review Committee is holding regional engagements across the country to gather citizen input on possible amendments to the 1992 Constitution. The Upper East engagement was held at the Akayet Hotel in Bolgatanga on June 16, 2025.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Joshua Asaah|Bolgatanga

Bolga agric department intensifies farmer support ahead of unpredictable rainfall season

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As the 2025 farming season gets underway, the Bolgatanga Municipal Department of Agriculture is ramping up efforts to support local farmers amid forecasts of irregular rainfall patterns. The department is currently focusing on extension service delivery, farmer registration, and community sensitization on the new national agricultural policy—the Feed Ghana Program.

According to Lantana Osman Apusiga, the Municipal Director of Agriculture, these initiatives are critical to ensuring a productive season despite anticipated weather challenges.

“Currently, in the Bolgatanga Municipality, we are registering farmers and sensitizing them on the Feed Ghana Program, a new policy we are required to implement this season,” she said.

Two Dry Spells Forecasted: Farmers Advised to Plant Early

With meteorological projections predicting two major dry spells—between mid-June and July, and later in the season, Madam Apusiga advised farmers to start planting early to avoid crop stress and low yields.

“Even though the rains started early, they are not consistent. If you delay planting, your crops may be stressed, and that affects productivity. Take advantage of the early rains,” she urged.

She encouraged the use of early-maturing crop varieties to reduce the risk posed by delayed rainfall. Waiting for further rains in July may coincide with dry spells, significantly impacting yield.

Emphasis on Improved Seeds and Responsible Agrochemical Use

Madam Apusiga also advised farmers to use certified, improved seeds and warned against unsafe practices, especially the misuse of agrochemicals. She noted that ongoing public education efforts aim to raise awareness about safe chemical use to protect public health and the environment.

“We are educating the public on responsible chemical usage. Misuse harms not just the environment but also our health.”

Promoting Soil Fertility and Sustainable Land Preparation

Another priority this season is integrated soil fertility management. The department is promoting the use of manure and other sustainable practices to improve soil health. Madam Apusiga cautioned against over-reliance on tractors, particularly among smallholder farmers, and recommended cost-effective alternatives like block ploughing.

Community Farmer Cooperatives and the Feed Ghana Program

As part of the Feed Ghana Program, the municipality is working to form and register Community Commodity-Based Farmer Cooperatives. These cooperatives are essential for program participation and are aimed at enhancing farmer organization and access to government support.

“We are focused on forming and facilitating the registration of these cooperatives. It’s a key requirement that must be fulfilled before the end of the month,” she noted.

Boosting Women’s Participation Through Livestock Farming

In addition to crop farming, the department is encouraging investments in the livestock sector, particularly for women and youth. Livestock, poultry, and small ruminant farming are being promoted as viable income-generating ventures under the Feed Ghana Program.

“When it comes to agriculture, it’s not just crops. Livestock—especially poultry—is an area where women can thrive. I encourage more women to take advantage of these opportunities,” Madam Apusiga emphasized.

Tackling Environmental Challenges: Plastic Pollution in Focus

Finally, the department is addressing environmental issues, especially plastic waste. Plastic pollution is interfering with land preparation, as polythene materials are often ploughed into the soil. Madam Apusiga called for stronger collaboration with environmental health authorities to manage waste and support environmentally sustainable agriculture.

“Plastic waste is a big issue. It interferes with land preparation. We need joint efforts to manage this problem,” she stressed.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga

Peter Ayinbisa calls for collective action to curb teenage pregnancy in Upper East Region

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Peter Ayinbisa, the Upper East Regional Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has raised serious concerns about the alarming rate of teenage pregnancy among candidates sitting for the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) in the region.

According to Ayinbisa, 21 BECE candidates are currently pregnant, while 17 others are lactating mothers—a situation he describes as deeply troubling and damaging to the image of the region.

“It is news that sells. It is negative news, and it sells. But it doesn’t portray our region in a good manner,” he lamented during an interview on A1 Radio.

A Multi-Stakeholder Problem That Requires a United Response

Ayinbisa emphasized that the issue of teenage pregnancy must be addressed collectively, as it is not solely the responsibility of parents. He called for a multi-stakeholder approach involving teachers, community leaders, parents, students, and government institutions to tackle the root causes and offer lasting solutions.

“It’s a multifaceted issue. Parents have a role, teachers have a role, the community has a role, and even the children themselves have a role. What we expose them to on national television also contributes. There’s no single approach that will solve this,” he stressed.

Contributing Factors: Late-Night Events and Media Influence

Highlighting some of the underlying causes, Mr. Ayinbisa pointed to late-night social events held in various communities, and inappropriate media content consumed by adolescents, as key factors contributing to the surge in teenage pregnancies.

He urged local authorities and parents to take proactive measures to regulate community events and monitor media consumption among young people.

A Call for Regional Leadership and Intervention

Ayinbisa called on the Upper East Regional Minister to take up the issue as a priority project, working closely with the Regional Director of Education and other key stakeholders to investigate the root causes and develop effective strategies to mitigate the problem.

“I know the Regional Minister is a very proactive person. I want him to take this as a project—go round, find out what the issues are, and lead efforts, guided by the Regional Director of Education, to fine-tune interventions and find lasting solutions,” he said.

The Way Forward

With the future of young girls at stake, Ayinbisa’s appeal serves as a timely call for collective responsibility and decisive action. Stakeholders in education, health, traditional leadership, and child protection are urged to join forces to combat the rise in teenage pregnancies and protect the educational aspirations of girls in the Upper East Region.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga

Talensi farmers urges agric minister to release subsidized seeds, fertilizer for Northern Ghana

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Ajono Martin, the 2020 2nd Best Farmer in the Talensi District of the Upper East Region, has made an urgent appeal to Eric Opoku, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, to immediately release government-subsidized seeds and fertilizer to farmers in Northern Ghana.

Martin emphasized that the optimal planting window for maize, a staple crop in the region, is rapidly approaching. Any delay in the distribution of inputs, he warns, could lead to reduced crop yields, threaten food security, and jeopardize the livelihoods of thousands of smallholder farmers.

“The backbone of our farming economy is between 20th June and 14th July. Any delay beyond this window will severely affect crop yields and risk the food security of the region and the nation at large,” Martin cautioned.

Inputs Procured but Not Delivered

According to Martin, although the government has already procured seeds and fertilizer under its subsidy programme, the items are yet to reach farmers on the ground.

He raised concerns that if these inputs are delayed until August or September, they will be useless for farming purposes and instead end up benefiting traders and businessmen, some of whom may divert the inputs to neighboring countries for profit.

“Please do not let bureaucracy or personal interests deprive Northern farmers of this farming season. Let us not sabotage ourselves,” Martin appealed passionately.

Concerns Over Intentional Delays

Martin also expressed suspicion that some officials may be intentionally slowing down the distribution process for personal or commercial gain—an act he says must be immediately investigated and stopped.

“It is worrying that some officers may be deliberately slowing down the process for personal or commercial interests. This must not be allowed to continue. The true beneficiaries of these inputs are the farmers—not middlemen or traders,” he stated.

A Call for Immediate Action

Martin is calling on the Minister to act decisively within the next few days, ensuring that seeds and fertilizer are released to farmers ahead of the critical planting window. This, he insists, is essential to protect food security, boost agricultural productivity, and uphold trust in the government’s subsidy program.

The plea from the Talensi farmer reflects growing concern among agricultural communities in northern Ghana as the rains have begun, but critical farm inputs remain out of reach.

Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|David Azure|Bolgatanga

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