Accra: The Reverend Martin Amenaki, Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ketu North, has commended farmers under the Weta Irrigation Scheme for their dedication and innovation in rice production.
According to Ghana News Agency, the commendation came during the Weta Rice Fair, held under the leadership of the Weta Irrigation Scheme with sponsorship from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The fair served not only as an exhibition of locally grown rice and processed products, but also as a strong call for government and stakeholders to support local farmers by purchasing their produce. The absence of a reliable market, participants noted, continued to pose a major challenge to the sustainability of rice farming in the area.
Rev Amenaki described the event as ‘remarkably well-organized,’ admiring the beautiful display of rice varieties and the creativity of local processors. The fair, he said, provided a vital platform for farmers, agricultural experts, and development partners to exchange ideas and strengthen collaboration toward improving rice production in the municipality.
He expressed particular appreciation for the innovation and dedication of the farmers and acknowledged the instrumental role played by the Assemblyman for the Adzoatsi Electoral Area, Mr Wonder Pomevor, in ensuring the success of the event. The MCE, who is also a farmer, reaffirmed his commitment to championing agricultural development in the area.
Rev Amenaki expressed optimism that the recent intervention by the National Food Buffer Stock Company, facilitated by the efforts of the Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Mr Edem Agbana, to purchase locally produced rice and other farm produce for storage would bring much-needed relief to farmers. He stated that this initiative reaffirms a collective commitment to food security and farmer empowerment, positioning Ketu North as a model constituency with agriculture at the center of its development vision.
The fair, he noted, had been an eye-opener, enriching his understanding of modern rice cultivation practices. He pledged to apply the lessons learned to improve productivity both on his own farm and across the municipality. Rev Amenaki also expressed gratitude to JICA for the citation and farming equipment presented to him, assuring that the items would be used to promote best practices in local farming.
Mr Bernard Mawudzro, Scheme Manager of the Weta Irrigation Scheme, stated that the event aimed to draw national attention to the immense potential of the scheme and to appeal for modern farming tools, improved rice seedlings, weedicides, pesticides, and other essential inputs to enhance productivity. He thanked JICA for its continuous support and collaboration.
The participating farmers also expressed joy and appreciation for the organization of the fair, describing it as a timely boost to their morale and market visibility.