By Gilbert Azeem Tiroog

Nangodi (U/E), Dec. 6, GNA – Mr Francis Yenwona Tobig, The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Nabdam, has announced that processes have begun for the construction of a 24-hour economy market at Pelungu to expand market access, promote agribusiness, and create sustainable jobs in the district.

Addressing the 41st National Farmers’ Day celebration at Nangodi, the DCE said the move formed part of government’s broader strategy to promote a vibrant 24-hour economy that supports farmers, traders and processors throughout the value chain.

He emphasised that the facility would serve as a major trading hub where farmers could sell their produce at all times, helping reduce post-harvest losses that have long burdened smallholder farmers in the area.

Mr. Tobig indicated that the project aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s Feed Ghana flagship programme, which sought to boost local agricultural production, ensure food security and generate decent jobs for the youth.

He noted that agriculture remained the backbone of the district’s economy and stressed the need to expand production while modernizing market systems to meet emerging economic opportunities.

The DCE further disclosed that the Nabdam District Assembly had begun implementing several complementary interventions to support agricultural development, including the construction of an animal holding pen at Nangodi to control stray animals that destroy farmlands during the planting season.

He added that the Assembly had also initiated multiple community development projects, including classroom blocks, health facilities, sanitation infrastructure and an expanding road network.

Mr. Tobig said the government’s GH₵13.9 billion “Big Push” infrastructure programme would significantly improve farm-to-market access in rural communities, thereby reducing transportation bottlenecks and post-harvest losses.

He appealed to the youth and women to take advantage of the growing investment in the agriculture sector, describing agriculture as a viable and dignified pathway to employment and wealth creation.

“The youth must desist from drug abuse and embrace agriculture for the improvement of their lives. l call on all parents to intensify the fight against drug abuse for the better future of our children” he advised

Mr. Rasheed Imoro, The District Director of Agriculture,  underscored the need to strengthen local food systems through increased production and consumption of indigenous Ghanaian foods.

He said this year’s theme: “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future” called for deliberate national action to promote local food security and protect the future of agriculture.

Mr. Imoro revealed that the Department of Agriculture, with support from partners including the Food Systems Resilience Programme, the Institute of Tropical Agriculture, NABCADO, among others , had implemented 20 on-farm demonstrations across 20 communities.

These demonstrations, he noted  directly reached 1,500 smallholder farmers with improved crop varieties, pest management practices, soil conservation techniques and livestock management technologies aimed at boosting productivity and resilience.

He added that 1,112 women across the district were trained in food processing and value addition to improve household nutrition and promote the consumption of local foods.

Mr. Imoro also urged farmers to form and register farmer-based organisations (FBOs), noting that only organised groups will be eligible to access government support under the Feed Ghana programme when it becomes fully operational next season.

Naba Yelzoya Kosom Asaga II, the Paramount Chief of Nangodi Traditional Area, urged the Farmers to unite, share ideas on best agricultural practices to make the district food secure.

Naab Adongo Mustapha, the Chief of the Dasabiligo community, emerged as the Best District Farmer and was awarded a motor tricycle (Motor King). The first runner-up, Ntal Tule, received a motorbike, while the second runner-up, Yaribil Nabire, was also presented with a motorbike.

Source: GNA