Kadjebi: Farmers in the Kadjebi District of the Oti Region have expressed concerns over the delayed rainfall during the major farming season, which is causing anxiety about potential effects on crop production and livelihoods. The farmers typically expect heavy rains to commence in March, but this year, the rains have not yet arrived, leaving them uncertain about when to begin planting.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Frank Agyemang, a maize farmer from Butabe, a farming community in the Kadjebi District, stated that the delay in rainfall has left farmers anxious as they rely heavily on rain to initiate land preparation and planting. Many farmers have already prepared their lands in anticipation but are now forced to wait, worried that prolonged delays could diminish their yields for the season. He emphasized, "We usually start planting around this time when the rains become consistent, but this year the rains have not come as expected. If the rains delay further, it could affect our production and income."
Mr. Agyemang called on relevant authorities and agricultural extension officers to enhance education on climate-smart farming practices and advise farmers on appropriate measures if the rains continue to delay. Ms. Delight Agbemor, another farmer from Dodi-Akum, shared her concerns about the unpredictable rainfall pattern, stating that it has made planning challenging for farmers. She noted that some farmers are hesitant to plant early crops due to fears that the seeds might dry up in the soil if the rains remain absent.
Ms. Agbemor highlighted that delays in rainfall could also impact the cultivation of essential crops such as cassava, yam, and vegetables, which are crucial for food production in the district. Other farmers echoed these concerns, pointing out that the changing rainfall patterns could negatively affect food production and household incomes if the situation persists. They emphasized their dependence on rainfall due to a lack of irrigation facilities.
The farmers have urged the government of Ghana and stakeholders in the agriculture sector to provide support with climate-resilient farming methods, improved seed varieties, and irrigation assistance to mitigate the impact of erratic weather patterns. Agricultural experts have recently warned that climate variability could lead to irregular rainfall patterns in parts of the country, necessitating the adoption of adaptive farming practices. Despite the challenges, the farmers remain hopeful that the rains will soon arrive, allowing them to commence planting.