Koforidua (E/R), 20 Feb. GNA – A Non-Governmental Organization 4-H Ghana has completed the first phase of its 4R champion programme, which aims to improve sustainable production by encouraging farmers to use best agricultural management practices.
The programme also encourages farmers to gain greater access to the agricultural value chain and to incorporate best practices for food security.
The 4Rs involve using the « Right source, of fertilizer at the Right rate, at the Right time, and in the Right place. »
The first phase, which will be introduced to schools and farmer-based groups in 2021, will be implemented by Fertilizer Canada and the Canadian Cooperative Development Foundation (CDF), with financial support from the Government of Canada provided through Global Affairs Canada.
Madam Christiana Yakubu, Country Director of CDF Canada in charge of Ghana and Senegal, at the closing session said the programme was open to anyone from Sub-Saharan Africa who wanted to start a 4R micro project related to agricultural extension.
She was pleased that 4-H Ghana introduced the 4R champion programme to schools and farmer-based groups and urged the Ghana Education Service to revitalize the school garden project for students to be exposed to climate-smart approaches and the 4R nutrient stewardship.
« Food security is a major issue, and we believe that this type of initiative can help us address some of our food security challenges, » she stated.
She said CDF Canada collaborated with a research institution to develop recommendations and additional materials for farmers to learn how to use fertilizer correctly.
Taking part in the session were Eat What You Grow, « a farmer-led group, as well as student representatives from Ghana Senior High School (SHS), Adonten SHS, Trinity Presbyterian Model School, Asesewa Presbyterian Junior High School (JHS), and Nsawam SDA JHS
The students were pleased to learn about proper fertilizer application, the benefits of fertilizer application, and agricultural prospects.
Mr Appiah Kwaku Boateng, Executive Director of 4-H Ghana, described the organization as a positive youth development body that promotes life and livelihood skills development in schools and communities using the « 4-H methodology of learning by doing. »
He noted that clubs have been established in 51 schools throughout the Northern, Central, and Eastern regions to implement the 4R champion programme.
The Doryumu Basic « B » school and Adonten SHS won video documentary and essay competition respectively in the 4R Champion Programme, which ran from June to December 2021, and were awarded certificates during the closing session.
4-H Ghana works in collaboration with the GES and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture on the programme.
