KEEA farmers trained to Boost Vegetable Production and Climate Resilience
Farmers and Agricultural Extension Officers in the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem (KEEA) Municipality have received training in modern farming skills and best practices designed to enhance vegetable production and strengthen resilience to climate change.
The training formed part of the “FruitBunch Vegetable Farmers Resilience Project”, sponsored by the Danish Development Organisation (DANIDA). The project seeks to enhance food security, improve agricultural productivity, and build climate resilience in Ghana. It is spearheaded by Aarhus University (AU), Denmark, in partnership with the University of Cape Coast (UCC), the University of Ghana, and its research station at Kade.
The farmers receiving training on FruitBunch Vegetable
Linking Research to Practice
Explaining the rationale for the training, the Co-Principal Investigator of the project, Dr. Alexander Tetteh Kwasi Nuer, in his presentation on leading the Inclusive Business Models and Socio-Economic component, said the project foucus was on crops such as eggplant and okra. He indicated that the project would promotes the use of soil amendments like biochar and compost, which improve crop viability at minimal cost.
“We looked at creating a sustainable, inclusive business model to ensure that farmers derive financial benefits from their farm products,” Dr. Nuer stated.
He stressed that the project was a demonstration of how university research could be applied to solve real-world challenges:
“The research conducted by university scholars does not end up in libraries alone, it is being used by farmers. UCC has significantly contributed to this project, with Masters and Ph.D. graduates in agricultural economics, crop and soil sciences providing valuable research inputs,” he noted.
Collaborative Approach
Dr. Nuer described the project as a result-oriented partnership involving multiple stakeholders.
“We want the public to know that collaboration works. Together, farmers, scientists, and businesses can improve agribusiness in Ghana. Farmers bring experience, scientists contribute knowledge, and businesses provide resources to create a holistic approach to agricultural development,” he added.
Project team members
Training Focus
As part of the project, farmers were trained in business acumen, entrepreneurship, and financial management, in addition to practical techniques such as seed nurturing with potting mix, crates, and trays. These methods improve seed viability, reduce early disease risks, and ensure stronger seedlings before field transplantation.
Ms. Dorcas Blankson, a Ph.D. student on the project at UCC, explained the benefits of the potting mix:
“It is very effective and simplifies monitoring of seedlings. You can rest assured that your seeds are healthy and free from early infections,” she said.
Ms. Dorcas Blankson demonstrating potting mis to the farmers
Addressing the farmers, a Senior Researcher on the project, Dr. Kofi Atiah, shared the importance of reusing farm and household residues as alternative fertilizers to enrich soil health. He noted that empty oil palm fruit bunches have been repurposed, contributing to a circular economy within farming communities.
Source: Documentation and Information Section-UCC