<<Print>>

The Executive Director of Trade Aid Integrated, an NGO, Nicholas Apokera, has warned of a possible food shortage in the Upper East Region due to the late start of the farming season coupled with poor rainfall pattern. From his observation, the erratic nature of the rains is likely to affect the availability of food in the region this year and could result in a serious food crisis if nothing is done to salvage the situation. Mr Apokera tells Radio Ghana that his interaction with farmers confirmed that there is low production in crops as most farms are experiencing post-harvest loses. Meanwhile, most cereal plants such as rice, millet and maize have already dried up though such varieties have not been harvested. The current trend, Mr Apokera noted is an ample indication that food shortage is likely to occur. Most farms have been deserted and left under the mercy of birds, predators and the harsh climatic condition of the prevailing weather. He therefore called on government to intervene by putting in measures to assist the region with additional food supply if there is availability of food stock. If not, government has to plan on how to get additional food to support the people in the region. Mr Apokera suggested the urgent need for small holder farmers to prioritize climate change adaptation. He also stressed the need for an integrated change in the entire agriculture system as this is vital to identifying innovative farming methods to address the problem of climate change. He disclosed that Trade Aid has over the years trained and assisted farmers to implement climate change adaptation actions and urged government to complement its effort in that regard. Another area worthy of mentioning is the issue of water harvesting which he noted is to be revisited and taken up with all the seriousness it deserves.