A group of Ghanaian farmers in the Biakoye District in the Oti Region has divulged that the rains has started on a good note for them this year amidst the early drought signs forecasted by the Ghana Meteorological Service (GMS).
The Ghana Meteorological Service, at the beginning of the year, predicted a heavy drought causing fear to farmers as their anticipated planting season was at risk of being delayed. Three months into the year, the drought signs were so evident. However, the past week and this week have brought great joy to these farmers as the rain emptied itself on their already tilled lands.
Speaking to the Vaultz News, these farmers could not conceal their joy as their prayers seemed to be answered. Mr. Emmanuel Akliku said the rain delay stirred up a massive fear in his heart, but now all the fears have disappeared.
“I was afraid that this year’s rain will delay to like the middle of the year, that is June thereabout, but it has come earlier than the predictions made by the experts. I am glad I took a bold step to plant my cassava and maize last week.”
Mr. Akliku Emmanuel
Voices of farmers in Biakoye District
Mr. Agbabga, a renowned farmer in the Abotoase township, disclosed that he has never been this happier than now that the rain has started. I waited and wanted to give up, but thankfully my hope didn’t fail me.
“I had already planned to plant my cassava in April by hook or crook, and I am glad I could plant them. Two days after I planted, my farm had its first rain. As a farmer, you have to be patient.”
Mr. Agbabga- Farmer
Affirming the delayed weather and how things have turned around unexpectedly, Mr. Atoklo Kwasigah, a cassava farmer, also said, “I planted my cassava ending of March. I am so glad I took that decision.”
“The rainfall pattern over the past four years has changed. Things are not the same as they used to be. I have plans of digging a well in my farm to avoid water scarcity in the future.”
Mr. Atoklo- Farmer
Mr. Ametowudor, a farmer, said he and his family were worried about the lateness of the rains, but it has come.
“My family and I were troubled since we saw signs of late rain this year, but we are no more worried because we have had enough rains this week. We are ready to seize this opportunity by planting our crops. No need to delay. We hope it will continue until our crops are ready to be harvested. I hope to finish all my plantings by the end of this week. I am happy but do not know what the coming month’s rains will be like. I only pray for the best.”
Mr. Ametowudor- Farmer
Another vegetable farmer, Mrs. Kudeha, interviewed by the Vaultz news, said the rains has exceeded her expectations. I have finished planting my cabbage and chili pepper and am waiting for more rain with good sunshine for a bumper harvest, she added.
“With the way things are going, I can farm twice this year,” Mrs Kudeha revealed.
A group of farmers disclosed to the Vaultz news earlier this year their coping strategies for the planting season due to the rise in fertilizer price and inputs, only for other farmers to be delayed in their planting because of weather issues. However, the news has turned into something pleasant for these farmers. The rains have started earlier than expected, which means planting can commence, and the fertilizer brouhaha is likely to be solved due to the Translas-Dangote Fertilizer memorandum of understanding signed. The Agric Minister’s forecast about Ghana’s agriculture sector bubbling with life could become a reality.
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