The 2025 Overall National Best Farmer, Opanyin Abraham Kwaku Adusei, is calling on the government to make irrigation development a top priority to secure the future of food production in Ghana.

Speaking after receiving the top honour at the 41st National Farmers’ Day celebration in Ho on Friday, December 5, the 82-year-old farmer stressed that reliable access to water remains the biggest barrier to sustained agricultural growth.

“Irrigation infrastructural development remains critical to the sustainability of our agricultural sector,” he said. “Areas including, but not limited to, the Afram Plains are blessed with vast fertile lands and hold immense potential to become the food basket of our nation if only we can ensure reliable access to water.”

He welcomed assurances that irrigation initiatives have been captured under the government’s Feed Ghana programme.

“I’m glad the Honourable Minister of Food and Agriculture reiterated that irrigation infrastructural development has been captured in the Feed Ghana programme. This, to me, is a step in the right direction towards achieving the goals of the Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, and Secure the Future agenda,” he said.

Opanyin Adusei also praised President Mahama’s pledge to enhance infrastructure in the Afram Plains.

“Your Excellency, Mr President, we warmly welcome your commitment and efforts to construct a bridge over the Afram River and rehabilitate the road networks within the Afram Plains. These interventions, Your Excellency, will not only enhance agricultural productivity, but will also open up our rural economies, create jobs, and transform lives,” he added.

He expressed deep gratitude for being recognised at the national event.

“On this momentous occasion marking the 41st National Farmers’ Day celebration, I rise with profound humility and gratitude to extend, on behalf of all farmers of our beloved nation, our sincerest appreciation to everyone who has made this day possible.”

He further thanked the government for upholding the annual ceremony.

“Permit me, Your Excellency, to express my deepest appreciation to you and to the Government of the Republic of Ghana for sustaining this noble tradition of celebrating and rewarding the tireless efforts of our nation’s farmers and fishers. Your continued commitment to the advancement of agriculture remains a beacon of hope for us all.”

Having previously won the Eastern Regional Best Farmer award in 2009, Opanyin Adusei dedicated his latest honour to all Ghanaian farmers.

“This distinguished recognition is not mine alone; it belongs equally to the thousands of hardworking Ghanaian farmers, men and women, whose hard work and sacrifices feed our nation, sustain our industry, and strengthen our economy. To all of them, I say Ayekoo.”

Read also: 82-year-old man emerges overall National Best farmer for 2025