Accra, Ghana — Bernard Safo Asamoah, the 52-year-old Overall Best Farmer of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, has transformed a once troubled four-acre land in Bubuashie, Accra, into a thriving farm that has effectively curtailed drug peddlers’ activities in the area.
Before relocating to Bubuashie in 2019, the land was a notorious hideout for drug dealers and criminals, posing risks to the local community. However, through intensive cultivation of diverse food crops, Bernard has turned the area into a peaceful and productive farming space, much to the relief and joy of residents.
Expressing his gratitude for the recognition by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, Bernard urged others to adopt similar initiatives in their communities to boost Ghana’s food supply and foster safer neighborhoods.
The 41st National Farmers’ Day, marked on December 5 in Ho, underscores the critical role of farmers and fishers in Ghana’s food security and economic development. Speaking at the event, President John Dramani Mahama encouraged Ghanaians—especially those in formal employment—to take up agriculture as an additional source of income. Emphasizing that farming is not limited to rural areas or full-time farmers, the President said, “Teachers and civil servants can go to work and have farms, and the money from the farm can supplement their incomes.”
President Mahama highlighted that embracing agriculture as a secondary enterprise not only improves household finances but also strengthens national food security and reduces dependence on food imports.
This year’s celebration, themed “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future,” also featured the National Agricultural Fair, which opened on December 1 at the Ho Sports Stadium. The event brought together farmers, agribusiness innovators, policymakers, and investors to showcase advancements in technology, value addition, and sustainable farming practices.
