The Savanna Agricultural Research Institute (CSIR-SARI) has trained lead smallholder farmers and extension officers in the Upper East and Upper West Regions on modern agronomic practices and soil fertility management to enhance crop productivity and resilience against climate change.
The three-day workshop, held in Pusu-Namongo, focused on staple crops including maize, soybean, and cowpea, equipping participants with practical skills in land preparation, timely planting, fertilizer application, crop protection, and harvesting. Participants were also introduced to biochar production, a soil enhancement method that improves moisture retention and fertility.
Dr Iddrisu Yahaya, Principal Investigator of the “LOGMe II” project, explained that the initiative targets low yields, soil degradation, and climate variability, with the aim of restoring 30,000 hectares of degraded land using climate-smart and nature-based solutions.
Dr Julius Yirzagla highlighted the training-of-trainers approach, enabling lead farmers and extension officers to cascade knowledge within their communities, while Dr Peter Quandahor encouraged the adoption of organic and agroecological pest control methods.
The project, implemented under the “Sahelian Landscape: Land of Opportunities-Widening Proven Furrows (LOGMe II)” initiative by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), also involves partnerships with the Environmental Protection Authority and the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, extending support to 15 communities across four districts.
Farmers who participated expressed optimism that the practical skills acquired, including proper fertilizer use, timely harvesting, and soil fertility improvements, would enhance yields, income, and food security in their communities.
