Lawra: Naa Puowele Karbo III, the Paramount Chief of the Lawra Traditional Area, has expressed his appreciation for President John Dramani Mahama’s government, acknowledging its efforts in enhancing agriculture and infrastructure development. The chief highlighted that recent initiatives have alleviated long-standing challenges faced by farmers in accessing agricultural mechanisation services and essential inputs like fertilizers and improved seeds.
According to Ghana News Agency, Naa Karbo attributed the improvement in agricultural conditions to the government’s Feed Ghana Project, which has mitigated the impact of unpredictable rain patterns. He noted that his previous proposal at the Kobine Festival for the establishment of mechanisation centres equipped with tractors, fertilisers, and seeds, managed by extension officers, is being realised through the project.
The remarks were made during the 47th Kobine Festival celebration in Lawra, under the theme: ‘Farming for a Healthy Living: The Role of Key Stakeholders in the Lawra Traditional Area.’ The festival, an annual event, is a cultural gathering where the Chiefs and people of Lawra express gratitude for a successful farming season and promote unity and development. It drew participants from the Upper West Region and neighbouring Burkina Faso.
The celebration featured activities like clean-up exercises, youth symposiums, and cultural dances, highlighting the area’s rich cultural heritage. Naa Karbo explained that the theme was chosen to underscore the importance of collaboration among government, traditional leaders, and the private sector in bolstering the agricultural sector.
He emphasized that both the Feed Ghana Project and the Big Push Infrastructure Programme have the potential to revolutionize farming, improve livelihoods, and fortify local economies. As President of the Upper West Regional House of Chiefs, Naa Karbo expressed gratitude for prioritizing the Wenchi-Bole-Wa-Lawra-Hamile road under the Big Push Programme, while urging for expedited construction.
Furthermore, he reiterated his call for the completion of the Dikpe Bridge over the Black Volta, a critical project for enhancing trade and connectivity between Ghana and Burkina Faso. Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, the Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, representing President Mahama at the festival, affirmed that the festival’s theme aligns with the government’s vision for a modern, market-driven agricultural sector.
He stated, ‘Our Feed Ghana Programme seeks to transform agriculture from subsistence to a modern, market-driven sector that guarantees food security, creates jobs, and promotes healthy living.’ He also highlighted the importance of festivals like Kobine in fostering national unity and recognizing the vital contributions of farmers to Ghana’s development.