The Transition Landscape, once known as the ‘’breadbasket’’ of Ghana, is gradually losing its fame due to the threats of climate change coupled with unsustainable agricultural practices. To address these challenges, EcoCare Ghana through the European Union-funded LEAN Project is promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) and sustainable farm management by establishing three model farms in the Transition Landscape. The farms in Offinso Municipal, Offinso North and Techiman Municipal Assemblies were established in partnership with the Department of Agriculture in the respective assemblies. The farms are to serve as practical training grounds for smallholder farmers. These efforts aim to empower farmers to adopt sustainable practices that increase soil fertility, improve productivity and farmer income, reduce the use of inorganic fertilisers and pesticides, and build farmers’ resilience to the adverse impacts of climate change.

During a recent farm visit in the Offinso Municipality, Mr. Kofi Owusu Boahen, the Municipal Agriculture Director, highlighted the importance of the model farms in building farmers’ resilience to climate change. “training farmers to transition to sustainable farming practices can restore degraded lands, enhance food security, and conserve biodiversity.’’

Agriculture Extension Officer Mr. Kwame Wiafe provided training on best practices for cassava farming, emphasizing proper crop spacing of 100×100 cm or 100×50 cm to maximize yields. He also advocated for local maize varieties over foreign ones, citing their cost-effectiveness and adaptability to local conditions. Mr. Joseph Badu, a farmer from Kyebi shared his success story: “I applied the prescribed cassava spacing last season and had a bumper harvest. These training sessions truly make a difference.’’

At the Offinso model farm, the impact of climate change was evident on the maize, which suffered moisture stress due to a prolonged dry spell. In contrast, the cassava crops showcased their resilience, thriving under harsh conditions. Discussions during the session also stressed the need for timely organic fertilizer distribution to help farmers mitigate unpredictable weather impacts.

In Techiman, farmers learned about intercropping maize with cowpeas. Agric. Extension Officer Mr. Stephen Aidoo discussed the benefits of intercropping maize with cowpea, noting that cowpea improves soil moisture and fertility. He addressed challenges such as pest control and shared strategies for maximizing yields. ‘’Intercropping is an efficient use of land resources, but it requires careful planning to avoid competition between crops for soil nutrients,’’ he noted.

Agric. Extension Officer overseeing the farm, Ms. Grace Akrugu demonstrated environmentally friendly techniques adopted, including mulching to retain soil nutrients. ‘’Avoiding traditional burning practices allows the soil to stay fertile and supports better crop growth,’’ she explained. The timely planting of maize in Techiman allowed it to mature before the dry spell, contrasting with the Offinso experience.

Farmers also voiced concerns beyond the field. Madam Mercy Tagona Awe raised the issue of market price determination, urging support in addressing unfair pricing by traders. Meanwhile, farmer Yamoah Gifty expressed enthusiasm for the training: ‘’Today’s session equips us with better practices to face challenges. I hope for more of such practical training.’’

The LEAN Project’s model farm visits demonstrate its transformative impact on farmers, promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture and sustainable land management. ‘’These sessions are an eye-opener,’’ remarked farmer Kwabena Kamasah. ‘’With these techniques, I believe we can overcome challenges and improve our livelihoods.’’

Mr. Enock Okyere, the project officer of EcoCare Ghana emphasized the overarching goal: ‘’These training sessions address the technological and knowledge barriers faced by smallholder farmers, promote sustainable farming, and cultivate sustainable land management practices.’’

He emphasized that EcoCare Ghana remains committed to empowering farmers and fostering and enhancing food security and well-being.

Photo Gallery: Images from the farm visit