Speaking at the presentation, Mr Abebe Haile commended the Government of Ghana and MoFA for the pragmatic steps taken so far in containing the invasive insect pest, Fall Army worm. The FAO representative to Ghana was particularly pleased with the reactiveness of MoFA to educating farmers leading to early detection of the invasion.
Mr. Abebe Haile added that, FAO remains committed to supporting Government in building the capacity of smallholder farmers in the country to adopt management measures that have proofed effective in fighting the Fall Army worm.
FAO representative also revealed that a refresher Training of Trainees for Agriculture Extension Agents across the ten regions of Ghana is being planned for January, 2018. This he said is expected to facilitate a Farmer Field School Approach at the grass root level as well as promote a collaborative community effort in preventing and the containing the Fall Army worm.
Hon. Dr. Nurah Gyiele Minister of State in charge of Agriculture, who received the items on behalf of Government, expressed appreciation to FAO and asked other companies and the general public to donate generously towards the development of agriculture in the country. FAO over the years has always shown interest in farmers and this is evident in their effort to help farmers acquire and practice the right methods for farming”, he added.
Dr. Gyiele indicated that the fight against army worm was a continues process to prevent its spread to neighbouring countries and to ensure food security in the sub-region.
By: Bgbara Tanko, (PRO, MoFA)