The Ministry of the Interior has confirmed that Friday, November 8, 2024, will not be designated as a public holiday, despite the scheduled observance of the National Farmers’ Day celebration on that date.
While the Ministry of Food and Agriculture has advanced this year’s commemoration to November 8 instead of December 6, the Interior Ministry has stated that the statutory holiday will remain on December 6, traditionally observed on the first Friday of the month. This arrangement also coincides with the day before Ghana’s general election.
In an official release signed by the Interior Minister, Henry Quartey, the Ministry clarified that “8th November 2024, is NOT a Public Holiday even though the 2024 National Farmers’ Day will be observed on that day.”
Furthermore, the statement said December 6, 2024, will serve as the official statutory public holiday for Farmers’ Day, allowing citizens across the country to mark this occasion dedicated to the agricultural workforce.
This year, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture has decided against holding regional Farmers’ Day events. Instead, each region has been tasked with selecting winners for ten distinct award categories, who will then be honoured at a national Awards Night Ceremony in Accra.
This shift accents a more centralized celebration, highlighting the top contributors to the country’s agricultural success in a single, nationwide event.
To ensure regional representation at the national celebration, each Regional Coordinating Council has been directed to bear the travel, lodging, and meal expenses for their nominated awardees. This mandate also extends to Regional Ministers and Regional Directors of Agriculture, whose participation costs will similarly be covered by their respective councils.
At last year’s ceremony, a 57-year-old farmer from Agona West Municipality in the Central Region was crowned the 2023 National Best Farmer. Sponsored by the Agricultural Development Bank, her prize was GH¢1 million.
Ghana’s Farmers’ Day celebration, established in 1985, is a revered tradition that recognizes the critical role farmers play in sustaining the country’s economy and food security.
This year’s national celebration is anticipated to draw wide participation and attention, further emphasizing the invaluable contributions of Ghana’s agricultural sector.
