Over 200 Dormaa farmers set to thrive under 'Nkoko Nkitinkiti' initiative

The Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboa, has announced that the Dormaa Central, Dormaa East, and Dormaa West districts have been selected to pilot the 'Nkoko Nkitinkiti' project, aimed at strengthening poultry production and reducing imports.

According to the minister, under the project, the government will supply farmers with four-week-old birds to raise and sell.

He made this known during this year’s National Farmers Day celebration held at Amasu in the Dormaa Municipality.

Akwaboa said over 200 farmers will be supported annually in every constituency.

He added that veterinary and animal health services are being enhanced to reduce disease outbreaks through improved surveillance and vaccination coverage.

He assured that the region takes pride in Dormaa Ahenkro as a poultry hub, continuing to lead in livestock production and driving local economic development.

Highlighting progress in the agricultural sector, the minister said Bono Region remains one of the top producers of maize, cashew, plantain, eggs, and poultry in Ghana.

“Per available statistics, we remain one of the top producers of maize, cashew, plantain, eggs, and poultry in the country. Under the 2025 district agricultural performance review, Bono Region achieved a 12% increase in maize yields and 9% growth in rice production due to improved seed distribution and extension services,” he stated.

He noted that the youth are responding positively to the call to participate in agriculture.

To further encourage this, the government has reintroduced School Farms at all levels of education to instill a passion for farming and change perceptions about agriculture.

A total of 42 educational institutions across the region—including two Colleges of Education, 21 Senior High Schools, three Vocational/Technical Schools, eight Junior High Schools, and seven Basic Schools have been involved.

Each institution will be provided with inputs to cultivate maize, vegetables, and livestock for their own consumption. Fertilizers have also been distributed for the next farming season.

Istiqamah SHS in Wenchi was adjudged the Best SHS in Practical Agriculture, a recognition meant to motivate schools to continue their commendable efforts.

Touching on government policy, Akwaboa said Farmer Service Centres have been established to provide extension services and input supplies.

Out of 50 piloted centres nationwide, Bono Region hosts three, located at Wenchi, Sampa, and Wamfie.

On the theme of the 41st National Farmers Day, “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana and Secure the Future”, he urged Ghanaians to recommit to consuming locally produced food such as rice, maize, plantain, yams, cashew, vegetables, and poultry.

“Increased local consumption stimulates production, strengthens value chains, and protects the cedi. A strong taste for foreign foods injects large sums of money into the economies of exporting countries to the disadvantage of our own,” he noted.

Akwaboa emphasized the need for farmers to embrace modern technology, including drones for spraying, digital extension platforms, and climate-smart practices, describing them as essential for sustaining productivity.

The minister also highlighted Bono Region’s role as Ghana’s leading cashew producer, contributing nearly 45% of national output. To improve tree crop production, the government has rolled out the “Boosting the Tree Crop Sector” initiative.

The Tree Crop Development Authority (TCDA) continues to provide support for cashew, mango, coconut, and shea value chains, reinforcing Bono Region’s position as a key driver of agricultural growth.