Awudome Paramount Chief calls for national award scheme to honor farming chiefs at Ho West Farmers’ Day

Togbega Addai Kwasi Dzani XIII, Paramount Chief of the Awudome Traditional Area, has called on the government to establish a special national award scheme to honor chiefs who actively engage in farming and contribute to Ghana’s food security.

Speaking at the Ho West District’s 41st Farmers‘ Day celebration at Awudome Kwanta in the Volta Region, Togbega Dzani XIII said recognising such traditional leaders would not only acknowledge their efforts but also motivate more chiefs to promote agricultural development within their communities.

He noted that many young people remained idle and reluctant to consider farming, stressing that visible leadership and recognition could help shift such perceptions.

“Agriculture remains one of the most lucrative and reliable professions. When chiefs lead by example, it inspires the youth and the community at large to see farming as a dignified and profitable venture,” he said.

Chairing the event, Togbega Dzani XIII urged the youth to embrace agriculture as a viable and sustainable career path, emphasising the sector’s potential to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods.

In a speech delivered on behalf of Mr Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah, Member of Parliament for Ho West, farmers were assured of government’s continued support.

Mr. Bedzrah announced that the district would soon benefit from the Farmer Service Centre programme, which seeks to enhance access to machinery, inputs and technical services.

He also donated three motorbikes to support the organisation of this year’s district celebration, reiterating his view that farming remains a rewarding and respectable vocation.

A total of 17 farmers were honoured with certificates, farm inputs and other prizes for their contributions to food production and rural development.

The Ho West District joined other districts in the Volta Region to mark the celebration on Thursday, November 27, ahead of the National Farmers’ Day event scheduled for Friday, December 5, in Ho.

The ceremony brought together traditional authorities, government officials, farmers and community members who commended the awardees for their dedication and hard work.