The official Ghana Farmer’s Day on the first Friday in December, December 3 this year, celebrates the country’s farmers and fishermen. The agricultural industry contributes at least 20% to 30% of revenue to the country’s socio-economic fronts. The import and export business generates an income for many households, and allows the economic industry to thrive. However, issues, such as climate change, have had a negative impact on the industry. The agricultural industry faced similar challenges during the early 1980s but fought hard to grow it, which led to the observance of Ghana Farmer’s Day. It’s a day to recognize and award the hard work of farmers and fishermen.
HISTORY OF GHANA FARMER’S DAY
The first Ghana Farmer’s Day was instituted in 1985. It was created by the Provisional National Defense Council, which, at the time, made up the whole of Ghana’s administration. The day came as a result of the 30% growth of the farming industry the year before.
The country suffered from severe droughts in the early 1980s, which impacted crop yields. Ghana, which was largely dependent on the farmers to feed the nation, faced starvation and malnutrition. On the economic front, the country’s G.D.P. was also suffering immensely. However, the drought ended in 1984 and the country slowly recovered, recording an impressive 30% growth in the industry. The fisheries also flourished at the time. In order to recognize the plight and hard work of all Ghanian farmers and fishermen, the politicians decided to hold a Ghana Farmer’s Day every first Friday of December. During the election years, the day is moved to the first Friday of November.
The first Ghana Farmer’s Day was held in Osino, which is located in the Eastern region of Ghana. Osino was chosen as the prime location because it had been affected by the droughts the most severely. Subsequently, the following years have seen celebrations held in other locations that were also negatively impacted. Several activities take place throughout the day, and one of the most notable is the award ceremony that recognizes the best farmers and fishermen. Judges note and follow all the registered participants’ progress throughout the year. The judging categories include technological use, husbandry, and ecological awareness. In the first year, the winning farmer was awarded a radio, Wellington boots, and machetes. As the years passed, the awards grew in value and one of the most expensive awards was a three-bedroom house.
#Let’s go green
