Pusu-namongo: The Savanna Agricultural Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR-SARI) has conducted a training program for lead smallholder farmers and extension officers, focusing on improved agronomic practices and soil fertility management.
According to Ghana News Agency, the three-day workshop centered on staple crops like maize, soybean, and cowpea, providing participants with practical insights into land preparation, timely planting, fertilizer application, crop protection, and harvesting techniques. Additionally, participants learned about biochar production, a method that enhances soil, retains moisture, and improves yields.
This initiative is part of efforts to boost agricultural productivity in northern Ghana and improve food security. The training is a component of the 'Sahelian Landscape: Land of Opportunities-Widening Proven Furrows (LOGMe II)' project, which builds on the successes of its predecessor, LOGMe I. The project is implemented by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and benefits five countries: Ghana, Burkina Faso, Niger, Benin, and Senegal.
Funded by the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security through the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) Global Mechanism, LOGMe II aims to combat land degradation and promote sustainable livelihoods. In Ghana, the project is executed in partnership with CSIR-SARI, the Environmental Protection Authority, and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture in 15 communities across four districts, including Talensi and Builsa South in the Upper East Region.
Dr. Iddrisu Yahaya, Principal Investigator and Research Scientist at CSIR-SARI, highlighted that the project addresses key challenges such as low yields, soil degradation, and climate variability. It follows a community needs assessment conducted with IUCN support, focusing on good agronomic practices and crop protection.
The training is part of a broader strategy to restore 30,000 hectares of degraded land using climate-smart solutions. Dr. Julius Yirzagla of CSIR-SARI emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between research and practice to enhance productivity and food security. The 'training of trainers' approach ensures that lead farmers and extension officers pass the knowledge on to their communities.
Dr. Peter Quandahor, Research Scientist and Entomologist, advised adopting organic pest control methods and reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides to safeguard health and the environment. Beneficiary farmers praised the training and expressed optimism about improving yields and income levels by applying the newly acquired knowledge.