The Oti Regional Minister, Mr. John Kwadwo Gyapong, has pledged government’s construction of an irrigation project in the region, aimed at transforming the agricultural landscape of the Biakoye and Krachi East Municipalities.
According to him, the initiative is set to bring life-changing benefits to the region, renowned for its fertile soil and abundant water resources to farm all-year.
Oti is one of the eight regions where government has planned to irrigate 10,000 hectares of farmlands as part of its “irrigation for wealth creation” project within 12 months.
Currently, Ghana’s irrigation coverage stands at just 1.6%, far below the West African average of 13.9%.
The project’s primary objective is to harness Oti region’s potential for agricultural growth, creating opportunities for farmers to increase their yields and improve their livelihoods.
Addressing the stakeholders and traditional authorities in both Municipal and District Assemblies, the Regional Minister John Kwadwo Gyapong said by providing a reliable source of water for irrigation, the project would enable farmers to cultivate crops throughout the year, regardless of the season.
Mr Gyapong revealed that the development was particularly significant for the Oti Region, where farming and fishing were the primary pre-occupations of the inhabitants.
The region’s economy is dependent on agriculture, making this project a crucial step towards accelerating growth and development.
As the project takes shape, it is expected to have a profound impact on the lives of farmers and communities in the Biakoye and Krachi East Districts. With access to reliable irrigation, farmers will be able to increase their productivity, improve their incomes, and contribute to the region’s economic growth.
Mr. Prosper Glitse representing the chiefs and people of Nkonya, has warmly welcomed the Minister’s initiatives aimed at developing the area.
During a courtesy call, Mr Prosper expressed gratitude for the minister’s visit and assured the Minister of the chiefs’ full support in bringing the project to fruition.
He said the project, once completed, is expected to have a profound impact on the lives of the people of Nkonya, improving their economic prospects and overall well-being.
Reporting by Stephen Freeman, Accra.
