Saltpond (C/R), Oct. 16, GNA - Pineapple growers in the Mfantseman District of the Central Region have formed an association to enable them to take collective decisions to promote their activities. The association, which was initiated by the Mfantseman District Assembly and the District Directorate of Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA), was also to prepare the farmers for a pineapple-processing factory to be set-up in the area under the Accelerated Rural Development Programme.
Speaking at a meeting with the farmers at Saltpond, Mr Robert Quainoo-Arthur, the Mfantseman District Chief Executive, said the pineapple-processing factory was so dear to the Assembly and gave the assurance that everything possible would be done to make it succeed. "The factory has come to solve the marketing problems you have been encountering and will reduce unemployment in the District." Mr Quainoo-Arthur advised chiefs and landowners to release land to the farmers at reasonable and affordable cost.
Mrs Felicia Ansah-Amprofi, District Director of Agriculture, urged the farmers to increase production to enable the factory to get enough raw materials to operate all year round.
Two thousand and five hundred (2,500) farmers have registered with the Mfantseman District Pineapple Growers Association.
Mr Kweku Ayuba was elected as Chairman, Mr George Adams, Vice-chairman, Robert Amoah, Secretary, with John Mensah Enchil as Assistant Secretary. Grace Nyame was elected Treasurer and James Nunoo as Financial Secretary.
Adjoa Owoo, Osaman Otoo and P.K. Quainoo were elected as executive members.
