The African country of Ghana celebrates its Farmer's Day annually on every first Friday of December which means this year it falls on 2nd December. This day celebrates all the farmers of the country and people involved with agriculture.
Farming is very important for Ghana as agricultural industry contributes at least 20% to 30% of revenue to the country's socio-economic fronts. The import and export business generates an income for many households, and allows the economic industry to thrive.
However still majority of the farmers in the country are dealing with many challenges and issues like climate change made life even more harder for them. It is a day to recognize the hardwork of farmers and fisherman.
| Event | Ghana Farmer's Day |
|---|---|
| Date | December 3, 2022 |
| Day | Friday |
| Significance | The day celebrates all the farmers of the country |
| Observed by | Ghana |
Ghana Farmer's Day History:
Farming is very ancient practice as it dates back as far as the Neolithic period, being one of the defining characteristics of that era. By the Bronze Age, the Sumerians had an agriculture specialized labor force by 5000–4000 BCE, and heavily depended on irrigation to grow crops. They relied on three-person teams when harvesting in the spring. The Ancient Egypt farmers farmed and relied and irrigated their water from the Nile. Animal husbandry, the practice of rearing animals specifically for farming purposes, has existed for thousands of years.
Despite all of the contribution and the hardwork that farmers put upto it was seen that for a long time in our history they were not treated well and were largely exploited by the greedy landowners or rulers and that's why majority of the farmers in our world remained very poor for a long time. It was only in the modern century that farmers rights started to get into attention and this various laws were then passed and introduced improving the conditions of the farmers. However large numbeiffarnermers in the country still continues to suffer from many issues.
The first Ghana Farmer's Day was instituted in 1985. It was created by the Provisional National Defense Council, which, at the time, made up the whole of Ghana's administration. The day came as a result of the 30% growth of the farming industry the year before. Just before that the country suffered from severe droughts in the early 1980s, which impacted crop yields. Ghana, which was largely dependent on the farmers to feed the nation, faced starvation and malnutrition. On the economic front, the country's G.D.P. was also suffering immensely.
However, the drought ended in 1984 and the country slowly recovered, recording an impressive 30% growth in the industry. The fisheries also flourished at the time. In order to recognize the plight and hard work of all Ghanian farmers and fishermen, the politicians decided to hold a Ghana Farmer's Day every first Friday of December. During the election years, the day is moved to the first Friday of November. The first Ghana Farmer's Day was held in Osino, which is located in the Eastern region of Ghana. Osino was chosen as the prime location because it had been affected by the droughts the most severely.
Ghana Farmer's Day Significance:
Farmer's Day in Ghana is a day which is celebrated in honor of our farmers and all the other people who are related to work in the field of the agriculture sector. Agriculture sector not only just provides employment and contribute to nation's economy but it is also that thing which is very necessary for the survival of the human beings. As we might survive without many things but without food there is no life ahead. Hence importance of farming can never be taken lightly as our existence only depends on it.
Farming in Ghana consists of a variety of agricultural products and is an established economic sector, providing employment on a formal and informal basis. It is represented by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture. Ghana produces a variety of crops in various climatic zones which range from dry savanna to wet forest which run in east–west bands across Ghana. Agricultural crops, including yams, grains, cocoa, oil palms, kola nuts, and timber, form the base of agriculture in Ghana's economy.
The main purpose of the day is to celebrate and recognize the farmers and fishermen. These people work tirelessly to provide for their families and the entire nation. It is through their hard work that the socio-economic wheels of the country are still in optimal working condition. This day also salutes the spirit of the farmers as during the 1980s everyone thought that there is gonna be a destruction of Ghana's agricultural sector but the farmers had faced all the challenges and were able to bounce back. Hence this day respects farmers for their willpower.
The agricultural industry is one of the most important assets of any country. In fact, it wouldn't be wrong to say that many countries backbone is made up of the agricultural industry. It feeds the locals whilst bringing money from abroad through exports. Hence this occasion is also used as a way for farmers to express their opinions and raise their voices to the government for the issues which they are facing in this sector or asking for reforms altogether.
Ghana Farmer's Day Celebrations:
A programme of activities takes place to mark the day including prizes which are awarded to deserving farmers and fishers in order of best practices and outputs. A National Farmers Forum takes place at which the award winners can meet policymakers and experts on technological advances in the agricultural sector and also make their views known.
Judges note and follow all the registered participants progress throughout the year. The judging categories include technological use, husbandry, and ecological awareness. In the first year, the winning farmer was awarded a radio, Wellington boots, and machetes. As the years passed, the awards grew in value and one of the most expensive awards was a three-bedroom house.
So you can enjoy this festivities. Or if you want to do more then one of the best ways you can support the farmers and fishermen is by buying their goods. Not only will you receive fresher produce, but you will also likely get it at a cheaper price as the shipping costs will be reduced. Otherwise you can also consider donating to such organizations who supports farmers.
Most Searched FAQs on Ghana Farmer's Day:
1. When is Ghana Farmer's Day celebrated?
Ghana Farmer's Day is annually celebrated on first Friday of December.
2. Is Farmer's Day a holiday in Ghana?
Yes! Ghana Farmer's Day is a holiday in the country. Most schools and businesses are closed for the day.
3. How is Farmer's Day celebrated in Ghana?
Farmer's Day in Ghana is celebrated by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture. The Ministry holds award ceremonies as well as discussion forums for people to come forward to discuss their concerns related to the industry.