The Chairman of the Coconut Farmers Association of Ghana (COFAG) in the Volta Region, Togbe Dunenyo I, has made an earnest appeal to the relevant institutions responsible for distributing coconut seedlings, urging them to promptly assist the farmers in the region.
Togbe Dunenyo I has expressed concern over the serious challenges faced by many coconut farmers, stemming from the prolonged delay in the supply of seedlings. He revealed that numerous farmers have secured loans to purchase and prepare land for coconut cultivation, only to be left in a predicament due to the absence of the promised planting materials.
“I am experiencing sleepless nights as farmers contact me daily with their grievances. Many have borrowed funds to acquire and clear lands, yet they have not received any coconut seedlings as of now. Consequently, the lands they prepared have reverted to being overgrown with weeds and vegetation,” he lamented.
The chairman emphasized that the association has consistently encouraged many young individuals and women to engage in coconut farming as a viable livelihood. He further mentioned that a recent seminar organized by the Tree Crops Development Authority has inspired numerous farmers throughout the Volta Region to return to coconut farming and expand their operations.
Nonetheless, he cautioned that the continued delay in the supply of seedlings could erode farmers’ confidence in the sector and hinder association leaders from persuading others to invest in coconut production.
Togbe Dunenyo I, therefore, proposed the establishment of a coconut seedling bank within the Volta Region. He argued that such an initiative would lower transportation costs and alleviate the stress that seedlings endure when transported from the Western Region to the Volta Region.
Additionally, he urged the government to provide support to coconut farmers by supplying fertilizers and other essential agrochemicals necessary to enhance productivity and ensure the success of coconut plantations.
This appeal is particularly timely, as the Volta Region is currently experiencing heavy rainfall, creating optimal conditions for planting coconut seedlings. Farmers assert that any further delays could result in missing the most favorable planting window for the season.
Consequently, stakeholders within the coconut industry are strongly encouraged to act swiftly to ensure that farmers receive the necessary support to sustain and expand coconut production in the region.
Source:gosagh.com
