Former President John Dramani Mahama has taken significant steps towards agricultural development in the Savannah Region. According to Alhaji Mohammed Muniru Limuna, former Minister of Agriculture, Mahama has engaged in large-scale cultivation of crops and animal rearing, displaying a commitment to local empowerment and economic growth.
Hundreds of acres of land in Busunu, West Gonja Municipality, have been cleared and cultivated with crops such as soybeans. This initiative serves a dual purpose: providing a model farm for youth education in farming techniques and generating employment opportunities for the local community.
In a commendable move, Mahama has facilitated the extension of electricity to the Busunu farm, personally covering the expenses of wiring to the nearby Lorto community. Additionally, the Sharaf Mahama Foundation, an NGO established by Mahama’s son, has funded the extension of water supply from the farm to the Lorto community, demonstrating a holistic approach to community development.
The agricultural endeavors extend beyond crops, as Mahama has acquired a vast 600-acre plot in Yapei, Central Gonja District, for animal rearing. The project envisions creating the largest animal rearing center in Ghana and West Africa, potentially providing substantial employment opportunities for the region’s youth. The Yapei initiative primarily focuses on cattle, goats, and sheep farming.
Empowering women in agriculture is another aspect of Mahama’s strategy. Tractors and agricultural inputs will be supplied to women, with plowing services provided and essential resources like fertilizers and inputs furnished to promote women’s engagement in farming.
Alhaji Mohammed Muniru emphasizes the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) commitment to agriculture as a pivotal sector for Ghana’s development. These agricultural ventures spearheaded by Mahama underscore the significance of agriculture in fostering economic progress and local well-being.
Alhaji Mohammed Muniru disclosed these developments during the launch of the “Young Minds Project” by the Tamawuta Foundation in Busunu, where efforts are directed towards uplifting the underprivileged within the Savannah Region.