Madam Alima Sagito Saeed, National President of the Ghana Federation of Forest and Farm Producers (GhaFFaP), championed smallholder farmers’ causes at the fourth national dialogue series. Apexnewsgh reports 
“GhaFFaP supports producer organizations in the forest and farm value chain,” she explained. “We collaborate with ministries, agencies, and departments, like Agriculture, Land and Natural Resources, and Forestry Commission, to drive policy change.”
The dialogue focuses on farmers’ access to financial services, inputs, land, and markets. “When production increases, we want farmers to sell and earn a decent income,” Madam Saeed emphasized.
According to Alima, GhaFFaP has successfully convened a national dialogue series, uniting over 100 stakeholders from various sectors. These stakeholders include:
(a) Ministries, Agencies, and Departments: Representatives from key government institutions
(b) Private Sector Operators: Companies invested in the forest and farm value chain
(c) Financial Institutions: Banks and savings and loan schemes to provide economic support
(d) Women Groups: Empowering female farmers and producers
(e) Physically Challenged Representatives: Ensuring inclusivity for persons living with disabilities
(f) Research Institutions: Experts providing valuable insights and data
The goal of this diverse gathering is to foster collaboration and inform policy strategies that benefit all stakeholders, particularly young and old farmers, and capable producers. By sharing knowledge and resources, GhaFFaP aims to create a supportive environment where farmers can thrive and contribute to Ghana’s agricultural growth.
As Ghana grapples with crippling droughts, The National President of the Ghana Federation of Forest and Farm Producers (GhaFFaP), urges collective action.
“We’re facing unprecedented climate challenges,” she said. “This national dialogue seeks solutions. How can we leverage technology and knowledge to build resilience?”
To truly understand farmers’ struggles, GhaFFaP’s team visited farm locations, witnessing firsthand the devastating impact of climate change.
“We saw that farmers practicing Smart Agriculture were more resilient,” Madam Alima noted. “It’s crucial that knowledge reaches those who need it most – the farmers.”
GhaFFaP’s dialogue aims to bridge this knowledge gap, ensuring that expertise trickles down to the grassroots level.
“Knowledge should not remain at the top,” Madam Alima emphasized. “Our forum brings stakeholders together to agree on strategies for climate resilience, empowering farmers to thrive despite challenges.”
Madam Alima’s passion for empowering rural farmers shone through as she continued to share her vision. “As you can see, we’ve brought together innovators and exhibitors who are revolutionizing the agricultural landscape. Our farmers are producing high-quality crops, and their packaging is impressive. We’re showcasing the potential of Ghana’s agricultural sector, and people are taking notice.”
She emphasized the importance of partnership, saying, “We appreciate the support from government ministries and departments. We’ve made progress, but there’s still work to be done. We need continued collaboration to ensure food security and income stability for our people.”
Madam Alima highlighted climate management and adaptation as key concerns. “Ghana has policies in place, including the climate change framework, but we must ensure this knowledge reaches the farmers. We’re urging departments working directly with farmers to share critical information, enabling them to adapt to climate challenges.”
Her words echoed the sentiments of experts like Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, who stresses the importance of supporting smallholder farmers. By empowering these farmers, Ghana can unlock its vast agricultural potential, boost food security, and drive socio-economic growth.
Madam Alima’s dedication to this cause is inspiring, and her efforts are already yielding positive results. As Ghana strives for a food-secure future, her leadership and vision will undoubtedly play a vital role in achieving this goal.
The theme for the 2024 dialogue “Small holder producer organizations access to finance market linkages and social protection key to delivering sustainable climate resilience and green recovery”
The National dialogue was organized in Bolgatanga at Lapam Zorkor hotel.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen/ Bolgatanga
