Western North Region, Ghana — Ahead of this year’s Farmers’ Day, Hon. Petty Wilbert Brentum, the Western North Regional Minister, has hailed farmers as the backbone of Ghana’s economy and called on the youth to see agriculture as a viable and rewarding career.
In an interview with the press, Hon. Brentum emphasized that farming is not a punishment, as is often perceived by many, but a critical and honorable profession that sustains the nation. “Our farmers feed the country and drive economic growth. It is time our young people recognized the opportunities in agriculture,” he stated.
He revealed that under President Mahama’s Reset Agenda, hardworking, deserving, and award-winning farmers will be rewarded with several incentives, including free fertilizers, aimed at improving productivity, supporting livelihoods, and encouraging excellence in farming. He further stated that the fertilizers and all other items have already been received by the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) in preparation for the celebrations. “These incentives make this year’s Farmers’ Day a unique and memorable one,” he added.
Speaking about the upcoming celebrations, Hon. Brentum disclosed that Farmers’ Day will be observed on 5th December 2025 and will be held across every district and municipality in the region, in line with nationwide traditions. He said the Regional Farmers’ Day celebration will be held at Sefwi Surano, with all preparations underway to make it a colorful and memorable event. “Every district will honor its farmers; no one will be left out,” he noted.
The Minister encouraged the youth to venture into agriculture, stressing that even abroad, it is often the wealthy who go into farming—and Ghanaian youth can do the same. He highlighted emerging agribusiness, poultry farming, and mechanized agriculture as avenues for economic growth and personal advancement.
He also highlighted the Nkoko-Nkitinkiti initiative, which was launched in Kumasi during its pilot phase. Hon. Brentum explained that the program has empowered young people, including two graduates—one a nurse—who testified that the initiative transformed their lives by providing skills, income, and independence.
The Minister urged more graduates and young people to take advantage of such government programs and assured them that support structures, including access to training and inputs, will be available to ensure success.
He concluded by reiterating the importance of recognizing the contributions of farmers, noting that without their dedication, food security and economic stability in the region and the country at large would be at risk.
The upcoming Farmers’ Day celebrations are expected to bring together farmers, government officials, and youth across the Western North Region to honor agricultural achievements, reward excellence, and inspire the next generation to take up farming as a profession and a pathway to national development.
