AGRIC DEPARTMENT

TRAINING REPORT ON VALUE ADDITION (SOYBEAN PROCESSING & UTILIZATION, ORANGE FLESHED SWEET POTATO DRINK, PINEAPPLE-GINGER DRINK AND SPRING ROLLS) FOR A WOMEN FARMER GROUP.

DATE: 27^TH DECEMBER, 2023.

VENUE: KUBEKRO NO. 1

INTRODUCTION

This report is a narration of the detailed events and proceedings of the training workshop on Soybean processing and utilization, Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato drink preparation, and other recipes.

According to a research study, Soybeans and soy foods may reduce the risk of a range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, coronary heart disease (CHD) and some cancers, as well as improving bone health. Soy is a high-quality protein one or two daily serves of soy products can be beneficial to our health.

Other possible health benefits of soy foods may include: lowered blood pressure, improvement to blood vessels such as greater elasticity of artery walls, improve bone health etc.

Research study has it that, Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP) has enormous health benefits including its ability to help gain weight and boost immunity.

Out of the many varieties of sweet potatoes, Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato is highly rich in beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is an excellent source of Vitamin A. In situations where there is vitamin A deficiency, especially in children, it poses a big challenge; consumption of orange-fleshed sweet potato is a good solution. Vitamin A helps improve resistance to infectious disease and prevents dry eyes (Research study)

OBJECTIVES

For participants to know the importance of nutrition and how nutrients especially in fresh vegetables should be retained in food whiles processing to meet the level the body requires.
Create awareness of the opportunities of OFSP and SOYBEAN in terms of income generation.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

Situations on malnutrition cases especially among children less than five years and anemia in pregnant women will not be part of our Municipal’s health reports.
Success stories from some of the participants on income generation

TRAINING PROCEDURES

The program started around 10:00 am with an opening prayer by one of the participants. The WIAD officer gave a brief remark and education on the program and other nutrition related topics.

The facilitator also added few remarks on the importance of eating nutritious food as households as well as selling nutritious food to the populace or in public spaces.

A pre – training assessment was done to ascertain the participants’ level of understanding of the program. The multitude of the training methodologies used was utilized in order to make sure all participants understood the whole concept well, practice and use what they have learnt.

The facilitator emphasized on the correct measurement of the various items used. The main items used for the training include; Soybean, Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP), lemon juice, ginger, sugar (Syrup), Pineapple, etc.

Post – training assessment was also conducted to draw a conclusion on the level of understanding by the participants.

CONCLUSION / RECOMMENDATION

Soybean and Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato have enormous health benefits recommended for domestic consumption. They can really contribute to food security and improvement the health status especially among children under five (5) and pregnant women.

The program ended successfully and the facilitator advised the participants to practice all that they have learnt. She added that participants especially the youth should take it up as a business venture in order to minimize youth unemployment challenges the country is currently facing.

REPORT IN PICTURES

TRAINING REPORT ON FARMER BASED ORGANISATIONS (FBOs) AND FARMER GROUPS.

Training Report: Farmer-Based Organization Training

Date: 8/12/2023

Venue: Golfcity – Saki hightension.

Participants: 35 Farmers (30 Females, 5 Males)

INTRODUCTION

Farmer-Based Organizations (FBOs) create chances for farmers to enjoy advantages like cost savings, increased negotiating strength, and a more influential role in shaping policies. When FBOs are well-structured, they encourage the idea of farming as a business, establishing connections throughout the entire product value chain.

The awareness training aimed to teach crop farmers, particularly those engaged in vegetable production, and other stakeholders within the agricultural value chain about the importance of coming together in groups. The goal was to emphasize the significance of collaboration and group formation for mutual benefit.

2.0 OBJECTIVE:

The Farmer-Based Organization arranged training with the objective of empowering and enlightening a group of 35 farmers, including 30 women and 5 men, on diverse aspects of contemporary and sustainable farming methods. Additionally, the training aimed to enhance their cohesion as a collective entity.

3.0 AGENDA:

Introduction to Modern Farming Techniques:

Overview of advanced farming practices.
Importance of technology in agriculture.

Sustainable farming methods.

Crop Management:

Crop selection based on soil and climate.
Effective pest and disease management.

Crop rotation and diversification.

Livestock Farming:

Animal husbandry best practices.
Disease prevention and control.

Efficient feed management.

Financial Literacy:

Budgeting and financial planning for farming.
Accessing agricultural loans and grants.

Record-keeping for better financial management.

Market Access and Marketing Strategies:

Creating market linkages.
Understanding market trends.

Developing effective marketing strategies.

TRAINING METHODOLOGY:

The training sessions were a blend of theoretical presentations, practical demonstrations, and interactive discussions. Experienced trainers and agricultural experts were invited to share their knowledge and expertise with the participants.

4.0 HIGHLIGHTS:

Interactive Sessions: Participants actively engaged in discussions, sharing their experiences and learning from one another.

Practical Demonstrations: Hands-on demonstrations of modern farming equipment and techniques enhanced the understanding of participants.

Networking Opportunities: Farmers had the chance to network with experts and fellow farmers, creating a supportive community for future collaborations.

Feedback and Evaluation: Regular feedback sessions were conducted to assess the understanding and effectiveness of the training modules. This allowed for real-time adjustments to meet the specific needs of the participants.

5.0 CHALLENGES:

While the training was largely successful, some challenges were faced, including language barriers and varying levels of technological literacy among the participants. However, these challenges were addressed through additional support and simplified explanations.

6.0 CONCLUSION:

The Farmer-Based Organization Training at Golfcity -Saki Hightension proved to be a valuable initiative, equipping 35 farmers with the knowledge and skills necessary for modern and sustainable farming practices. The mix of theoretical and practical sessions, coupled with interactive discussions, contributed to a comprehensive learning experience for all participants. The success of this training program reflects a positive step towards enhancing agricultural productivity, improving the livelihoods of the participating farmers and strengthening them as a group. Continued support and follow-up programs are recommended to ensure the long-term impact of the training.

REPORT IN PICTURES

39^TH EDITION OF FARMERS DAY CELEBRATION AT KKMA – 1ST DECEMBER, 2023

Hon. Henry Quartey, the Greater Accra Regional Minister has encouraged farmers to embrace climate smart practices to ensure sustainable farming towards food security.

Climate smart agriculture, he explained, had innovative and improved techniques that helped to boost yields, food security, jobs, improve livelihoods and economic growth.

Hon. Quartey made the call at the 39th Regional Farmers’ Day celebration, held at the Kpone Bawaleshie Presbyterian Primary School Park in the Kpone-Katamanso Municipal Assembly.

It was held under the theme: “Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience.”

The event provided an opportunity to highlight the importance of sustainable agricultural practices, celebrate the contributions of farmers and fishers and reflect on the positives.

This year’s Greater Accra Regional celebration saw Mr Evans Teye Drah, a 54-year-old from Korlekope in the Ada East District of the Greater Accra Region adjudged the Regional Best Farmer.

He has 36 acres of watermelon, 34 acres of tomatoes, 70 acres of onion, 50 acres of mango, and 10 acres of chilli pepper.

He also has 120 cattle, 60 sheep, 25 goats and 80layer fowls with more than 80 workers.

Hon. Quartey said precision agriculture, use of data-driven insights, integration of smart irrigation systems, use of early maturing varieties that were drought tolerant, use of organic compost fertilizers, were examples of how technology could revolutionise land preparation to harvest crops.

“These innovations do not only enhance efficiency but also contribute to environmental sustainability,” he added.

The correct use of agricultural inputs, including fertilizers and pesticides application and the adoption of modern technologies to produce healthy produce was an imperative, he emphasized.

Hon. Quartey stated that improving farming technologies built strong and supportive communities.

Likewise, investing in the education and training of farmers, and creating robust supply chains that could withstand climate shocks.

Mr Drah took home a Motor King, one Mist Blower, five Cutlasses, three Wire Meshes, one Water Hose, three Harvesting Crates and, 25 Knapsacks Sprayers.

Others are five Shovels, five Wellington Boots, one Mattress, 21 Box Street Light, one Axe, one wheel barrow, two boxes of nails and six gallons, and other assorted items.

Mr Hudson Asamani, Greater Accra Regional Agric Director, called for collaboration to support home-grown agribusinesses among food crop farmers, tree crop farmers, fish farmers, and livestock farmers.

He urged the public to patronise made-in-Ghana foods to make farming a more profitable business venture than it had been.

Mr Asamani said the new Government PFJ 2 Programme would replace the old Input Subsidy Scheme with an Input Credit Scheme on high-yielding improved certified seeds, improved blends of fertilisers and agro-chemicals.

“Farmers will be supported by designated aggregators whom the Government has contracted to facilitate the registered farmers,” he said.

“Let me encourage our teeming youthful population to get on board the “Planting for Food and Jobs” Programme, as there is space for everyone, especially in the area of value addition.”

Hon. Samuel Okoe Amanquah, the Kpone-Katamanso Municipal Chief Executive, has urged farmers and other stakeholders to adhere to sustainable farming practices to ensure food security.

Speaking at the 39th National Farmer’s Day celebration at Kpone Bawaleshie in the Greater Accra Region, he cited rising temperatures, erratic rainfalls, changes in soil fertility, and pest infestations as some of the challenges affecting agricultural growth.

He said the theme for this year’s edition: “Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience,” was, therefore, suitable taking into consideration the contemporary challenges.

The delivery of smart solutions for sustainable food security would, thus, involve conscious integrated efforts in technology and an innovative approach to implementing precise measures to improve agriculture.

“Utilizing devices for managing crops and employing data analytics for informed decision-making to enhance agricultural productivity in line with the theme is the way to go,” Mr Amanquah said.

He encouraged agriculture stakeholders to consider organic farming and agroforestry while investing in research and leveraging Ghana’s rich natural resources to create more sustainable and resilient food economy towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Hon. Amanquah called on the youth to view agriculture both as a profession and a dynamic force to shape their future.

“By stepping into agriculture, the youth become architects of change, fostering sustainable practices and securing the foundation of the nation’s wellbeing,” he added.

Madam Adam Ayi, the Municipal Director of Agriculture, said through education and sensitisation, some youths had become more interested in agriculture and agribusiness, though some face challenges acquiring land to start farming.

The Agricultural Directorate had, therefore, encouraged them to go into non-traditional agriculture or home gardening, for example through grasscutter, rabbit, and snail rearing, catfish farming, and mushroom production.

The Directorate also organised training programmes for the youth and other stakeholders with frequent visits by its personnel to their farms to motivate them to work hard.

Mrs Getrude Odaikai Kpabifio, a 69-year-old farmer, who was adjudged the Municipal Best Farmer, expressed appreciation to the Assembly for the recognition.

She said agriculture was a lucrative business and urged more women and the youth to venture into it to improve their living standards.

CREDIT: INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT, KKMA

REPORT ON AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION AGENTS (AEAs) OPERATIONAL AREA MAPPING EXERCISE 2-11-23 TO 7-11-23

As part of the requirements of the Assembly to meet the District Performance Assessment Tool (DPAT), the department of Agriculture is required to have a MAP indicating the various zonal councils/offices and operational areas man by the Agriculture Extension Agents (AEAs). The Department of Agriculture in collaboration with the Department of Physical Planning embarked on an exercise to get the coordinate points of the eight (8) operational areas where the AEAs are stationed within the 4 zonal councils.

The team moved from community to community to cover all the eight (8) operational areas within the four (4) zonal councils to pick the coordinate.

The table below shows the places where the coordinates were picked.

MAPPING OF OPERATIONAL AREAS

S/N	ZONAL COUNCIL	OPERATIONAL AREA	FARMING COMMUNITY	COORDINATE		SERIAL NO.	NAME OF AEA	REMARKS
S/N	ZONAL COUNCIL	OPERATIONAL AREA	FARMING COMMUNITY	X-AXIS	Y-AXIS	SERIAL NO.	NAME OF AEA	REMARKS
1	Kpone	Kokompe	Aluworks	0171672	0627601	198	Samuel Ofosu-Darkwa	Activity was carried out successfully
			Olidade	0173921	0628972	199
			Kokompe	0171654	0630801	200
			Zonal Office	0173964	0629709	201
		Kpone	Kpoi-Tei	0176007	0636052	202	Lawrencia Abla Mensah	Activity was carried out successfully
			Shanghai	0174998	0631810	203
			Affordable Housing	0172237	0632528	204
			Zion City	0170814	0633288	205
2	KAMSBERG	Saki	Bediako	0168485	0635302	206	Millicent Xoese Zanu	Activity was carried out successfully
			Saki High Tension	0168028	0633090	207
			Golf City	0831705	0639320	208
			Timber Market	0830934	0629916	209
		Michel Camp/Gbetsile	KAMSBERG Office	0830812	0634491	210	Paul Awuvoe	Activity was carried out successfully
			Michel Camp	0828030	0633494	211
			Kakasunaka	0829889	0635204	212
			Sanko	0828136	0637618	213
3	ZEKKAS	Santo/Zenu	ZEKKAS Office	0825327	0634152	214	Mustapha Adjei Dawud	Activity was carried out successfully
			Newland	0823865	0633981	215
			Santoe	0824785	0632006	216
			Antie Alaba	0823388	0634445	217
			Katamanso	0823267	0634865	218
			Aviation	0826981	0636860	219
		Appolonia	Kubekro No. 2	0823493	0637406	220	John Tei Kpakpah	Activity was carried out successfully
			Appolonia	0824392	0641121	221
			Okushibli	0826162	0639632	222
			Adigon	0823068	0641049	223
4	ONSBAC	Oyibi	Sapong Kro	0817840	0642501	224	Prosper Yao Adzadi	Activity was carried out successfully
			Kon	0820947	0640932	225
			Old Saasabi	0820213	0644815	226
			Oyibi	0818760	0643649	232
		Bawaleshie	Bawaleshie	0820872	0647148	227	Seth Inkoom	Activity was carried out successfully
			Nganoman	0820350	0648763	228
			Mensah Bar	0819058	0646306	229
			Saduase	0817792	0645701	230
			Prayer Camp	0818579	0645285	231

KPONE ZONE KAMSBEG ZONE ZEKAS ZONE ONSBAC ZONE

STAKEHOLDERS MEETING REPORT: KPONE KATAMANSO MUNICIPAL AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT – RESEARCH EXTENSION FARMER LINKAGE COMMITTEE

DATE: 15/09/2023

LOCATION: KPONE KATAMANSO MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY HALL

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Kpone Katamanso Municipal Agriculture Department hosted a stakeholders meeting titled “Research Extension Farmer Linkage Committee”. The objective of this planning session was to bring together all stakeholders along the agriculture value chain to identify and address challenges facing the sector and the ways to solve them. The meeting aimed to foster collaboration and partnership among participants to promote sustainable agricultural development in the Municipality.

2.0 ATTENDEES

The planning session saw a diverse range of participants, including:

Greater Accra Regional Director of Agriculture
Representatives from the Kpone Katamanso Municipal Assembly
Local farmers (crops, livestock)
Agricultural Extension officers
Agribusiness entrepreneurs
Community leaders
Agricultural input suppliers
Processors
Interested Youth

Below is the category of attendance.

S/N	CATEGORY	MALE	FEMALE	TOTAL
1.	Stakeholders	6	8	14
2.	Staff	11	4	15
3.	Resource persons	1	–	1
	TOTAL	18	12	30

3.0 AGENDA

The meeting agenda included the following key topics:
Welcome and opening remarks
Overview of the agriculture sector in Kpone Katamanso Municipal and discussion of challenges during last year’s RELC Planning session.
Presentation of 2023 challenges faced by stakeholders.
Discussion of potential solutions and strategies
Closing remarks and next steps

4.0 PLANNING SESSION HIGHLIGHTS

4.1. WELCOME AND OPENING REMARKS

The RELC planning session commenced with a warm welcome by the Ag. Head of Department, who emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to address challenges facing the agriculture sector, The Director encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions and work together for the betterment of the Municipal’s agriculture industry.

4.2. OVERVIEW OF THE AGRICULTURE SECTOR

An overview of the agriculture sector in Kpone Katamanso Municipal was presented, highlighting the key crops, livestock, and value chains prevalent in the area. This presentation provided a clear understanding of the current state of agriculture in the Municipal.

4.3. PRESENTATION OF CHALLENGES

Representatives from various stakeholder groups shared their insights and challenges faced in their respective areas of the agriculture value chain. Some common challenges included:

Lack of access to modern farming techniques and technology
Post-harvest losses due to inadequate storage facilities
Limited access to credit and financial services
Pest and disease management issues especially onion thrips.
Inefficient distribution and marketing systems.

4.4. DISCUSSION AND PROBLEM-SOLVING

Participants engaged in a lively discussion on the challenges presented, and ideas for potential solutions were explored. Key points discussed included:

The need for training and capacity-building programs for farmers
Collaborative efforts to improve storage and processing facilities
Advocacy for improved access to agricultural financing
Strengthening extension services and knowledge transfer
Enhancing marketing strategies and linkages with buyers

4.5. CLOSING REMARKS AND NEXT STEPS

The RELC planning session ended with closing remarks from the Ag Head of department, who expressed gratitude to all participants for their active involvement. The Director emphasized that this meeting was just the beginning of a collaborative effort to transform the agriculture sector in Kpone Katamanso Municipal. Next steps included regular meetings of the subcommittees and the development of a comprehensive action plan.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Based on the discussions and outcomes of the meeting, the following recommendations are made:

Regularly convene stakeholder meetings to monitor progress and share updates.
Seek funding opportunities to support the implementation of action plans.
Encourage knowledge sharing and capacity building among farmers.
Foster strong partnerships between research institutions, extension services, and farmers.
Advocate for policy changes to address structural issues in the agriculture sector.

This report captures the essence of the “Research Extension Farmer Linkage Committee” stakeholders meeting and outlines the steps needed to address the challenges faced by the agriculture sector in Kpone Katamanso Municipality. It is a testament to the commitment of all stakeholders to work together towards a sustainable and prosperous agricultural future.

CONCLUSION

The “Research Extension Farmer Linkage Committee” stakeholders meeting proved to be a valuable platform for fostering collaboration among all actors in the agriculture value chain. It provided an opportunity to identify challenges and discuss potential solutions. The commitment and enthusiasm demonstrated by the participants bode well for the future of agriculture in Kpone Katamanso Municipal. As stakeholders continue to work together, it is expected that the Municipal’s agriculture sector will thrive and contribute significantly to food security and economic development.

RELC PLANNING SESSION – 15^TH SEPTEMBER, 2023

CONSTRAINTS	EXTENSION	RESEARCH	POLICY	RESPONSIBILITY	RANKING
CROPS
Inadequate Tractor Services During Dry Season	·			MOFA	1
FAW( Fall Army Worm)	·			MOFA	2
Onion Thrips	·	·		MOFA/CSIR	3
LIVESTOCK
Turaku Livestock Market Is Not In A Good Condition.			·	KKMA	1
Inadequate Security Measures At Turaku That Brings Lawlessness To The Place.			·	KKMA	2
Misuse And Abuse Of Drugs On Animals At Turaku.	·		·	MOFA/KKMA	3
Inadequate Market For Broilers.			·	KKMA	4
High Cost Of Poultry Feed.			·	MOFA	5
High Cost Of Hutches/Cages In Grass Cutter/Rabbit Production			·	MOFA	6
MARKETING
The price per shed annually is very high.			·	KKMA	1
No Motorable roads in the market and erosion has taken over the whole market			·	KKMA	2
No storage place for the marketers at the Kpone market			·	KKMA	3
Roof leakages of shed in the market.			·	KKMA	4
Filth in the market			·	KKMA	5
Information centre needed at the market			·	KKMA	6
Access to loans for marketers	·		·	MOFA	7
FISHING
Light method of fishing destroying fishing activities by the *local fishermen and Chinese*			·	KKMA	1
No mini harbour at the beach			·	KKMA	2
PROCESSING
High cost of raw materials			·	KKMA	1
Inadequate water storage facilities at the Turaku Slaughter slab			·	KKMA	2
Poor condition of the Turaku slaughter lab and expansion	·		·	MOFA/KKMA	3
Lack of improved ovens for fish processing	·		·	MOFA/KKMA	4

TRAINING PICTURES

NON-TRADITIONAL AGRICULTURE (RABBIT AND GRASCUTTER REARING) TRAINING FOR LIVESTOCK FARMERS

DATE:08/09/2023

VENUE: KPONE KATAMANSO MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY HALL

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

This report provides an overview and evaluation of the Grasscutter and Rabbit Training Program conducted for interested youth and local farmers in the Kpone Katamanso Municipal Assembly. The program aimed to equip farmers with essential knowledge and skills in grasscutter farming, with the goal of creating jobs and improving their productivity and income. This report outlines the program’s objectives, methodologies, outcomes, and recommendations for future initiatives.

1.0 INTRODUCTION:

Grasscutter farming is an emerging and potentially lucrative agricultural activity in our region. Recognizing the need to support local farmers in adopting sustainable farming practices and harnessing the economic potential of grasscutter rearing, the Grasscutter Training Program was initiated.

2.0 OBJECTIVES:

The primary objectives of the training program were as follows:

To educate farmers on grasscutter and rabbit biology, behavior, and health management.
To train farmers in proper grasscutter housing, feeding, and breeding techniques.
To improve farmers’ understanding of market dynamics and opportunities for grasscutter sales.
To promote sustainable and ethical grasscutter farming practices.

3.0 METHODOLOGY:

The training program covered a day and was conducted through a combination of the following methods:

Classroom sessions with an expert facilitator.
Group discussions and interactive sessions.
Power Point Presentations and Pictures of successful grasscutter farms.

4.0 OUTCOMES:

The Grasscutter and Rabbit Production Training Program yielded several positive outcomes:

4.1. Knowledge Enhancement:

Participants demonstrated a significant improvement in their understanding of grasscutter and rabbit biology, health, and nutrition. They acquired essential skills related to housing construction, feeding, and disease prevention.

4.2. Market Awareness:

Farmers now have a better grasp of market dynamics and have identified potential buyers and sales channels for their grasscutters and rabbit.

4.3. Increased Confidence:

Participants reported increased confidence in managing grasscutter and rabbit farms and expressed confidence about the future of their enterprises.

4.4 Challenges Faced:

During the training program, several challenges were encountered:

Limited resources for participants to implement the newly acquired skills and knowledge.
Inadequate follow-up and support mechanisms for farmers post-training.

5.0 Recommendations:

To ensure the sustained success of grasscutter farming in our region, the following recommendations are made:

5.1. Continued Support:

Provide ongoing support to farmers, including access to resources, funding opportunities, and extension services.

5.2. Networking:

Facilitate networking opportunities for farmers to share experiences, best practices, and market information.

5.3. Market Access:

Work on establishing market linkages and value addition opportunities for grasscutter and rabbit products.

5.4. Monitoring and Evaluation:

Conduct regular monitoring and evaluation of farmers’ progress to assess the impact of the training program.

5.5 Conclusion:

The Grasscutter and Rabbit Production Training Program have been instrumental in empowering local farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in grasscutter farming. With ongoing support and strategic interventions, we can anticipate sustainable growth in the grasscutter and rabbit farming sector, resulting in improved livelihoods for our farming communities.

TRAINING PICTURES

TRAINING REPORT ON TECHNICAL EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT FOR MODERNIZING AGRICULTURE IN GHANA (TEDMAG).

DATE: 19^TH JULY, 2023.

VENUE: KKMA HALL

TOPIC: POST HARVEST MANAGEMENT IN THE AGRICULTURAL VALUE CHAIN.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

This report provides an overview of the training program on Post-Harvest Management organized for 23 staff (16 males and 7 females) of the department of agriculture. The objective of this training was to enhance the capacity of agricultural officers to improve post-harvest practices, reduce losses, and contribute to the development of agriculture in the municipality.

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Ghana’s agricultural sector plays a crucial role in the country’s economy. However, post-harvest losses remain a significant challenge, affecting both food security and economic development. This training program aimed to address this issue by equipping staff with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage post-harvest activities.

2. OBJECTIVES

The primary objectives of the training program were as follows;

To educate participants on best practices in post-harvest management.
To enhance participants’ understanding of the importance of reducing post-harvest losses.
To provide hands-on training in post-harvest handling, storage, and marketing techniques.

To empower staff to disseminate their knowledge and skills to farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
TRAINING METHODOLOGY

The training program employed a variety of methods to ensure effective learning and engagement, including:

Classroom lectures and presentations on post-harvest management principles.
Practical demonstrations of post-harvest handling techniques.

Group discussions and interactive sessions.

Pre-and post-training assessments to measure knowledge gain.

TOPICS COVERED

The training program covered a range of topics related to post-harvest management, including:

Importance of post-harvest management in agriculture.
Harvesting techniques to minimize damage.

Storage methods and facilities.

Pest and disease management in storage.
Value addition and processing of agricultural produce.
Marketing and market linkages.

KEY FINDINGS:

The training program yielded several key findings and outcomes:

Participants demonstrated a significant increase in their knowledge of post-harvest management practices.
Practical sessions and field visits were highly beneficial in helping participants apply their newfound knowledge.
The training program empowered staff to take the initiative in disseminating post-harvest management information to local farmers and communities.
Participants recognized the economic and food security benefits of improved post-harvest practices.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Based on the findings, the following recommendations are made:

Continue to provide similar capacity-building programs to ensure a broader impact on post-harvest management practices in the Municipality.
Encourage participants to mentor and train local farmers and communities on post-harvest management.
Consider the establishment of post-harvest management demonstration centers to showcase best practices.

7.0 CONCLUSION:

The training program on Post-Harvest Management for 23 staff in the agricultural sector of Municipality has been a valuable investment in building the capacity of professionals to address the critical issue of post-harvest losses. It is anticipated that the knowledge and skills acquired during this program will contribute to improved agricultural productivity, food security, and economic development in the Municipality and the country at large.

TRAINING PICTURES

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM) TRAINING REPORT AT MICHEL CAMP -14-01-2023

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) training was conducted at Michel Camp Irrigation Site with the aim of educating farmers on sustainable and effective pest management practices. The training sought to empower farmers with knowledge and skills to mitigate pest-related challenges while promoting Environmentally-friendly approaches to Crop protection.

2.0 OBJECTIVES

The training had the following specific objectives:

Introduce farmers to the concept of IPM and its benefits over conventional pest control methods.
Educate participants on identifying common pests and their life cycles.

Train farmers on monitoring and assessing pest populations in their fields.

Demonstrate various IPM techniques, including cultural, biological, and chemical control methods.
Promote the use of alternative and eco-friendly solutions to chemical pesticides.
Encourage the adoption of sustainable Agricultural practices to enhance crop resilience and reduce pest pressure.

3.0 PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The IPM training was a full-day event divided into interactive sessions and practical demonstrations. The program outline included:

Introduction to IPM: A brief overview of IPM principles, emphasizing the importance of balanced pest management.
Pest Identification: Farmers were taught to recognize and differentiate between common pests and beneficial insects in their fields.

Pest Life Cycles: Understanding the life cycles of pests was crucial in planning timely interventions.

Monitoring Techniques: Participants learned how to conduct regular field inspections and assess pest populations accurately.
Cultural Practices: Emphasis was placed on crop rotation, proper spacing, and other cultural techniques to minimize pest infestations.
Biological Control: Farmers were introduced to natural enemies such as predators, parasites, and pathogens that could help control pests.

Chemical Control: Responsible and judicious use of pesticides, with an emphasis on selecting low-toxicity options and following safety guidelines.
Use of Traps: Participants were shown how to set up traps for pest monitoring and mass-trapping.

IPM Plan Development: Each farmer was encouraged to create a customized IPM plan suitable for their specific crops and environment.

4.0 PRACTICAL DEMONSTRATIONS

Hands-on demonstrations were an essential part of the training:

Setting up Traps: Farmers learned to assemble and install various traps to capture pests effectively.
Beneficial Insect Release: Participants witnessed the release of beneficial insects in the field to control pest populations.

Proper Pesticide Application: A demonstration of correct pesticide application techniques and safety precautions.

5.0 DISCUSSION AND Q&A

After each session, there was a dedicated time for open discussions and a question-and-answer session. Participants actively engaged with the trainers, sharing their experiences and seeking clarifications.

6.0 CONCLUSION

The IPM training at Michel Camp was a success, providing valuable insights and practical knowledge to the farmers. Participants expressed their eagerness to implement the newly acquired skills and knowledge in their fields. The training contributed to the promotion of sustainable Agriculture and reduced reliance on harmful chemical pesticides, benefiting both farmers and the environment.

7.0 FOLLOW-UP PLAN

To ensure the continuity of IPM practices, follow-up visits will be conducted by the organizing team to assess the implementation of IPM strategies on the farms. Additional support and guidance will be provided to address any challenges encountered during the process.

The success of this training program lays the foundation for future collaborations to promote sustainable Agricultural practices, benefiting farmers and fostering Environmental conservation.

TRAINING PICTURES.

AGRIC DEPARTMENT

39TH EDITION OF FARMERS DAY CELEBRATION AT KKMA – 1ST DECEMBER, 2023

39^TH EDITION OF FARMERS DAY CELEBRATION AT KKMA – 1ST DECEMBER, 2023