PFAG urges gov’t to channel resources meant for 40th Farmers’ Day to tackle ‘galamsey’

The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has raised concerns about challenges faced by the country’s agricultural sector and urged the government to shift focus from ceremonial events to addressing critical issues.

According to the association, while it was important to recognise farmers’ efforts through awards, these celebrations have failed to translate into real solutions.

In a statement congratulating farmers on the occasion of the 40th Farmers’ Day celebration, PFAG called for a redirection of resources meant for ceremonial events to address the issues that affect farmers on the ground.

On this Farmers’ Day, we call on the government to direct resources, attention, and energy toward resolving these pressing issues,” part of the statement read.

PFAG stated that despite the dedication of these farmers, the government has failed to implement meaningful reforms.

Farmers continue to struggle with high cost of production, inadequate agricultural infrastructure, insufficient irrigation facilities, inadequate storage, poor roads, and limited market infrastructure,” the statement read.

The association also expressed disappointment in the government’s response to the agricultural sector’s challenges.

Over the years, the agricultural sector has faced numerous difficulties, and successive governments have largely responded with lip service,” PFAG noted.

The association further criticised the government for its lack of action on pressing issues, including the high cost of inputs, poor roads, inadequate irrigation facilities, and limited access to mechanisation services.

The PFAG also raised concern about the government’s inadequate response to the “galamsey” (illegal mining) crisis, which has severely impacted farmlands across the country.

“Illegal mining has devastated farmlands nationwide,” PFAG stated.

“Celebrating Farmers’ Day without addressing the galamsey crisis, which endangers farmers’ livelihoods, is hypocritical.”

The association reiterated its call for immediate government action, including the declaration of a state of emergency on mining activities in river bodies, forests, and farmlands.

We urge the government to implement a comprehensive land reclamation and restoration plan for all farmlands destroyed by illegal mining,” PFAG said.