By: Maame Efua Kwaduah
The Dormaa Central Municipal Director of Agriculture, Cecelia Adomah Yeboah has called for a shift in farming practices in the country.
She highlighted the harmful effects of the widespread burning of lands for farming, emphasizing that this practice is detrimental to the environment.
She advised that instead of burning entire fields, farmers should consider gathering weeds at designated points and burning them in smaller portions. This method, she explained, would protect the beneficial organisms that contribute to soil health and ecosystem balance.
She also addressed the proper application of agrochemicals, stressing that there are safe and effective ways to use these products that minimize harm to both human health and the environment.
Despite the recent climate challenges in parts of Ghana, with some areas experiencing up to three months without rainfall, Madam Yeboah remains optimistic about the future of farming in the country. She urged farmers to adopt modern practices, such as mulching, to preserve soil moisture and enhance crop growth.
She also pointed out the importance of technology in agriculture, noting the availability of maize seeds and other crops that can be cultivated within 90 to 150 days. She encouraged farmers to take advantage of these innovations and apply advanced agricultural techniques to boost their productivity.