Mr. Edward Kareweh, the General Secretary of the General Agriculture Workers Union, has confirmed to The High Street Journal, reports of widespread droughts in the norther part of Ghana. He noted that with the drought striking at a time when most farms, particularly those growing maize, are nearing maturity, the implications for crop yields and food availability are dire. With food prices already high, the drought could worsen the existing high cost of living.
The drought has created significant challenges for farmers, particularly in terms of crop yield and the application of essential agricultural inputs like fertilizer. As Mr. Kareweh explained, the current dryness of the soil makes it impossible to apply fertilizer effectively. “Fertilizer needs moisture to dissolve and be absorbed by crops, but the lack of rain means that any application could harm the crops rather than help them”, he said.
The GAWU General Secretary said the challenge calls for urgent need for innovative agricultural solutions that can help farmers adapt to the harsh conditions brought on by climate change. He explained that without such innovations, Ghana’s food security could be at risk, and farmers may struggle to sustain their livelihoods. He proposed a number of solutions including the introduction of drought-resistant crop varieties, which he described as the most promising solution. These crops are genetically engineered or selectively bred to withstand prolonged periods of dryness, ensuring that they can still produce a yield even when rainfall is scarce. By transitioning to these resilient varieties, farmers can protect their harvests and secure their income, even in challenging weather conditions.
In addition to drought-resistant crops, Mr. Kareweh also said innovative irrigation techniques like drip irrigation can play a crucial role. This irrigation technique allows farmers to deliver water directly to the roots of their crops, using minimal water while maximizing its impact. This system not only conserves water but also ensures that crops receive the necessary moisture, even when rainfall is unpredictable or insufficient.
Mr. Kareweh added that for these innovative solutions to be implemented effectively, government support is essential. He said the government must provide subsidies for drought-resistant seeds and modern irrigation equipment, making these tools accessible to all farmers, especially smallholders who are most vulnerable to the effects of the drought. Additionally, training programmes are needed to educate farmers on how to use these technologies effectively, ensuring that they can maximize the benefits and protect their crops.
News about the drought in the northern part of the country gained public attention over the past weekend with people sharing photographs of crops that have withered accusing government of going silent over a looming food crisis.
