Farmers in Konjiehi community in the Wa Municipality have received a major agricultural boost following the commissioning of a drip irrigation facility designed to support year-round farming and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The facility, provided through a partnership between Community Aid for Rural Development (CARD)-Ghana, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ), is expected to improve food production, increase household incomes and strengthen climate resilience among farmers.
The irrigation system includes a fenced irrigable area, a mechanised water supply system and drip irrigation lines, enabling farmers to cultivate crops beyond the traditional rainy season.
The intervention forms part of broader efforts by the partners to promote sustainable livelihoods, improve food security and reduce irregular migration by creating economic opportunities within local communities.
Speaking during the handing-over ceremony at Konjiehi, Executive Director of CARD-Ghana, Mr. Al-hassan Hudi, said the project was designed not only to benefit the more than 30 direct beneficiaries but also their families and future generations.
He explained that farmers had also undergone training in entrepreneurship and livelihood development to help them effectively manage the facility and maximise its benefits.
“This intervention is not only for over 30 beneficiary farmers. The benefits will extend to their households, their children and future generations within the community,” he said.
Mr. Hudi urged the community to protect and maintain the facility, stressing that collective ownership would be essential to ensuring its long-term success.
The Chief of Konjiehi, Naa Yakubu Hashim, described the irrigation project as a significant opportunity for the community, saying reliable access to water would transform agricultural activities and improve livelihoods.
He noted that increased farming opportunities could provide employment for young people and reduce the pressure to migrate in search of economic opportunities elsewhere.
Chief of Mission of IOM Ghana, Togo and Benin, Ms. Fatou Diallo Ndiaye, said the project reflected the importance of investing in inclusive and environmentally sustainable livelihoods for both returnees and host communities.
She said the successful implementation of the initiative demonstrated the value of collaboration among development partners, government institutions, traditional authorities and local communities.
Ms. Ndiaye reaffirmed IOM’s commitment to supporting livelihood programmes that align with national priorities and address the root causes of irregular migration.
A Technical Advisor at GIZ, Ms. Ruth Mansah Mensah, described the irrigation facility as a symbol of partnership, resilience and hope, adding that its impact would depend on proper maintenance and effective utilisation by the beneficiaries.
She encouraged community members to take advantage of support services provided by the Public Employment Centre in Wa, including skills training, career guidance and employment assistance.
In a speech read on his behalf, Wa Municipal Chief Executive Alhaji Nurah Issah Danwana said the project provided a practical response to climate-related challenges such as changing rainfall patterns and prolonged dry seasons.
He said the drip irrigation system would enable farmers to diversify production, improve productivity and increase household incomes.
The partners also presented farm equipment and inputs, including Wellington boots, knapsack sprayers, watering cans and other tools, to support the farmers in their agricultural activities.
