24 Group Ltd, a Tamale-based agribusiness organization, has supported smallholder farmers in Tamale to enhance their agricultural production and maximize yields, thereby improving food security in the region and the country.
The beneficiaries, who had previously received training on best agronomic practices, received farm inputs, cash financing, and free ploughing services to ease their farming activities and attract more youth to the sector.
This initiative, in collaboration with Tamale North Member of Parliament Alhassan Saibu Suhuyini, aimed to strengthen farmers’ resilience, improve the sustainability of agricultural development, and boost food security and economic growth. The selected farmers from the constituency and other districts expressed gratitude to the MP and 24 Group Ltd for their support, which they believe will help them maximize yields and profits, cater to their family needs, and expand their businesses.
The farmers highlighted the importance of the training provided by the organization, which has equipped them with knowledge of best agricultural practices that they have shared with their colleagues, enabling them to better prepare for the farming season. They expressed relief at receiving the necessary inputs, chemicals, and funds for plowing, which had previously been costly.
One beneficiary, Alhassan Nayi Ngbagu, noted that the capacity training and financial support allowed him to start production early, unlike previous years when he had to wait to secure a loan. He pledged to utilize the support effectively to grow his farm, as failure to do so would render him jobless and affect his family.
Another farmer, Kulaha-Amadu Alhassan, who cultivates five acres of rice, one acre of soybeans, and 10 acres of maize, mentioned that the rising cost of inputs and chemicals had previously taken a significant portion of their revenues, forcing many to quit the business. He believes the recent support from the MP and 24 Group Ltd will revitalize their operations and encourage other farmers to join the association to access similar support.
Executive Director of 24 Group Ltd, Mr. Mahama Mohammed Hadi, emphasized the crucial role of smallholder farmers in national food security, despite the lack of appreciation for their commitment. He stated that smallholder farmers often seek support through various programs and resources to manage risks and recover from challenges, but only a few receive the necessary assistance. Hence, the organization focused on identifying rural farmers in need and providing them with the required support.
Mr. Hadi added that smallholder farmers, particularly those in rural areas, often endure hardships traveling to towns and cities to acquire chemicals and farm inputs. By extending support to these farmers, the organization aims to ease their stress. He noted that recent hikes in farm input prices had nearly discouraged many farmers from continuing their livelihoods, but the support from 24 Group Ltd and other partners has changed their mindset.
"We are passionate about the activities of farmers who put food on our tables, and providing them with the requisite knowledge and support will help them grow their businesses and contribute to the economy," he said. He encouraged farmers to adhere to good agronomic practices to maximize their crop yields.