The Reverend Martin Amenaki, Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ketu North, has commended farmers under the Weta Irrigation Scheme for their dedication and innovation in rice production.
The commendation came during the Weta Rice Fair, held under the leadership of the Weta Irrigation Scheme with sponsorship from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The fair served not only as an exhibition of locally grown rice and processed products, but also as a strong call for government and stakeholders to support local farmers by purchasing their produce.
The absence of a reliable market, participants noted, continued to pose a major challenge to the sustainability of rice farming in the area.
Rev Amenaki described the event as “remarkably well-organized,” admiring the beautiful display of rice varieties and the creativity of local processors.
The fair, he said, provided a vital platform for farmers, agricultural experts, and development partners to exchange ideas and strengthen collaboration toward improving rice production in the municipality.
“I was particularly impressed by the innovation and dedication of our farmers,” he said.
“My appreciation goes to the Assemblyman for the Adzoatsi Electoral Area, Mr Wonder Pomevor, for his instrumental role in ensuring the success of this important event.”
The MCE, who is himself a farmer, reaffirmed his commitment to championing agricultural development in the Municipality.
He expressed optimism that the recent intervention by the National Food Buffer Stock Company, facilitated through the efforts of the Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Edem Agbana, to purchase locally produced rice and other farm produce for storage would bring the much-needed relief to farmers.
“This initiative reaffirms our collective commitment to food security and farmer empowerment. Ketu North continues to stand as a model constituency, where agriculture remains central to our development vision,” he stated.
Rev Amenaki said the fair had been an eye-opener, enriching his understanding of modern rice cultivation practices.
He pledged to apply the lessons learned to improve productivity both on his own farm and across the municipality.
He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to JICA for the citation and farming equipment presented to him, assuring that the items would be used to promote best practices in local farming.
“Together, we remain committed to transforming agriculture and changing lives in Ketu North and beyond,” he added.
Bernard Mawudzro, Scheme Manager of the Weta Irrigation Scheme, said the event aimed to draw national attention to the immense potential of the scheme and to appeal for modern farming tools, improved rice seedlings, weedicides, pesticides, and other essential inputs to enhance productivity.
He thanked JICA for its continuous support and collaboration.
The participating farmers also expressed joy and appreciation for the organization of the fair, describing it as a timely boost to their morale and market visibility.
