As part of strategies to ensure farmers especially cocoa farmers investments are not thwarted by bushfire during the harmattan season, the Nyinahin Cocoa Health and Extension Division (CHED), has organized a day’s sensitization for cocoa farmers
The event, which saw over one hundred (100) cocoa farmer participating was aimed to educate them on wildfire mitigation actions in their various farms.
In an interview with the media, the Nyinahin District Cocoa Officer of the Cocoa Health Extension Division (CHED) under COCOBOD, Mr. Bernard Amannor outlined the rationale for the sensitization program.
“In the month of November, there was little rainfall, which signals that we will experience a long harmattan season. If care is not taken, bushfires may increase in the country.”
“My team and I decided to invite leaders of our farmers and all relevant stakeholders and educate them on wildfire mitigation actions to curb bushfire during this season.” He disclosed.
On the cocoa rehabilitation program, Mr. Bernard Amannor, whose district was adjudged the best for the program, said “Initially, the farmers were having difficulties in accepting the cocoa rehabilitation program but later on, when COCOBOD introduced a policy where farmers will be paid while working on their farms, the program was widely accepted.
“As we speak, COCOBOD has open the registration of the 2024 – 2025 rehabilitation program of which we have started sensitizing farmers on it.
“Our target is to get 150 hectors but as we speak we have gotten more farmers on board and we are likely to exceed our target.”
He seized the occasion to advise farmers not to engage with galamsey operators, as the government has increased the cocoa price, making it more lucrative and offering future opportunities.
Source: Elvisanokyenews.com / Nana Akwasi Kyere
