Farmers in the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem Municipality say adopting modern farming techniques has improved their yields and incomes, and they are urging colleagues across the country to do the same to support Ghana’s development.
The call follows a year-long refresher training under the DANIDA-funded Fruitbunch Project, which brought together 25 vegetable farmers and 15 agricultural extension officers in the municipality. The project is led by Aarhus University in Denmark, in partnership with the University of Cape Coast, the University of Ghana and the KEEA Municipal Department of Agriculture.
The training focused on practical, climate-smart farming methods, with particular attention to soil health. Farmers were introduced to the use of biochar and compost as soil conditioners to improve soil structure, fertility and crop performance, especially under harsh and unpredictable weather conditions.
Participants were also trained in seed nurturing using potting mix, crates and trays, alongside lessons in agribusiness, entrepreneurship and basic financial management. According to the farmers, the combination of technical and business skills has led to healthier crops, better yields and stronger market access during the trial period.
Speaking at the closeout ceremony, where certificates were presented, several farmers described the training as a turning point. They said the hands-on approach helped them apply what they learned directly on their farms, making their crops more resilient to changing weather patterns and improving their financial stability.
They encouraged other farmers to remain open to new ideas, noting that farming has evolved and now requires innovation to stay productive. The beneficiaries also pledged to share their knowledge with fellow farmers to help strengthen the wider agricultural sector.
The Fruitbunch Project, supported by the Danish Development Organisation, aims to enhance food security, improve agricultural productivity and build climate resilience in Ghana. Its work in KEEA has focused mainly on vegetable crops such as eggplant and okra, using improved soil amendment practices to boost output.
Madam Victoria Dansowaa Abankwa, KEEA Municipal Director of Agriculture, praised the project for its strong emphasis on practical learning rather than theory. She described the focus on soil fertility as rare but essential, stressing that without healthy soils, farming cannot be sustained.
Dr Alexander Tetteh Kwasi Nuer, from the Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension at the University of Cape Coast and a co-principal investigator on the project, said the dissemination of biochar, compost and improved vegetable technologies had helped farmers and extension officers work together through a co-creation approach.
He added that the development of inclusive business models and cost-benefit solutions under the project has created a pathway for sustainability beyond its lifespan, describing it as a significant contribution to agricultural development in Ghana.
Overall, the Fruitbunch Project seeks to equip farmers with modern skills, strengthen their resilience to climate change, promote sustainable and inclusive business practices, and apply university research to solve real-world farming challenges.
