Farmers in the Northern Region are facing severe hardship due to a prolonged dry spell that has devastated crops and left communities struggling.
The situation, unfolding during the 2024 National Farmers’ Day Celebration, has prompted urgent appeals for government assistance.
In the Zabzugu District, farmers shared their concerns with Channel One News, fearing potential famine if help does not arrive soon.
“Some call it a curse from God, others say it’s climate change. Most of our crops have dried up completely, and it’s a disaster for us farmers. Our animals lack water, and yam and cereal production has been especially hard hit,” said John Tani. “We urge the government to come to our aid.”
Rajah Noah expressed similar distress: “We’re facing so many challenges this year due to low rainfall. As we celebrate Farmers’ Day, I appeal to the government for support. Otherwise, we may not be able to pay our kids’ school fees, as our crops are our livelihood.”
Kodjo Tani, who farms maize and yam, said the dry conditions have been catastrophic for him personally. “I planted eight acres of maize, but it all dried up. Even my yam farm, which I relied on, didn’t make it due to the lack of rain. Without government intervention, survival will be tough.”
Farmers in the community have heard promises of government support, but so far, nothing has materialized. “We heard that officials would come to identify those affected by the dry spell, but no registration has taken place. When I asked our agric officer, he said they only did a mass registration with Ghana card IDs,” Tani added, questioning the accuracy of the process.
Sambagyaga Timothy, a student affected by the drought, shared his struggle. “The rain stopped after we planted yam, maize, and groundnut. I can’t go to school due to the hardship. We’re pleading for government support to sustain our families.”
The farmers are calling for immediate intervention to address the devastation caused by the dry spell, which has left their crops, animals, and livelihoods at risk.
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