President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans for the construction of a long-awaited bridge over the Afram River, alongside major agricultural interventions, in what he describes as a decisive step toward transforming the Afram Plains.
The announcement was made during a sod-cutting ceremony for a Farmer Services Centre at Takoratwene in the Afram Plains South District.
According to the president, residents have for years faced serious transportation challenges due to the unreliable pontoon ferry system. In a recent incident, a faulty ferry broke down mid-journey, leaving passengers stranded and exposing the urgent need for a permanent crossing.
To resolve the situation, the government will construct a 3.6-kilometer bridge across the Afram River, complemented by approximately 100 kilometers of feeder roads to improve accessibility and regional connectivity.
The project, part of the GH¢10 billion “Big Push” Programme, is expected to ease the movement of people and goods, stimulate economic growth, and unlock vast agricultural potential in the enclave.
In addition to the bridge, President Mahama cut the sod for the construction of a modern Farmer Services Centre, designed to serve as a one-stop hub for farmers.“The Farmer Services Centre will serve as a one-stop service point for registered farmers,” he stated.
The facility will provide access to modern farming equipment, inputs, fertilizers, and technical support, aimed at promoting efficient, technology-driven agriculture.
Describing the Afram Plains as one of Ghana’s major food baskets, the president commended farmers for their consistent contribution to national food production, stressing that the new center will help stabilize prices, increase incomes, and significantly reduce post-harvest losses.
As part of broader support measures, the government has allocated GH¢3 million to the National Buffer Stock Company to purchase produce and guarantee ready markets for farmers.
President Mahama also highlighted ongoing irrigation efforts in the area, noting that agriculture can no longer depend solely on rainfall.“For too long, agriculture has depended solely on rainfall. That is no longer sustainable,” he said.
He disclosed that the government had already initiated irrigation projects covering about 900 hectares in the Afram Plains. Once completed, the irrigated lands will be allocated to interested farmers to support year-round farming and ensure a steady food supply.
The President further reiterated plans to provide free fertilizers and expand irrigation systems nationwide, expressing confidence in Ghanaian farmers and reaffirming their critical role in ensuring food security and national development.
Regional Minister
The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, on her part described the construction of Ghana’s first-ever Farmer Services Centre as a bold and transformative step towards boosting agricultural productivity and securing livelihoods in the Afram Plains enclave.
According to her, the facility would provide critical support services, including access to modern farming equipment, technical assistance, weather information, and market intelligence. These interventions, she said, are expected to increase yields, create employment, particularly for the youth, and stimulate local economic growth.
The minister also addressed the long-standing challenge of post-harvest losses in the area, where large quantities of farm produce often go to waste due to lack of storage, processing, and market access.
“It is my fervent hope that this facility will help reduce the persistent issue of farm produce rotting at the farm gates and contribute significantly to ensuring food security in the country,” she stated.
She further urged farmers within the ecological zone to take full advantage of the initiative by expanding their operations, assuring them of improved market access for their produce.
Hon. Awatey also encouraged the effective utilization of the area’s natural resources, including its fertile lands, livestock potential, and the rich aquatic resources of the Afram River, while calling on agricultural extension officers to intensify their support to farmers.
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