The government's Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) Phase 2 initiative, designed to boost agricultural productivity, has been marred by exclusion and delays in the supply of critical resources, notably seed and fertilizer.
This has had a significant impact on the local farming community, particularly affecting Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) who rely heavily on timely inputs to sustain their livelihoods.
Among those affected is Mr. Mohammed Wanye, a visually impaired farmer, in Jinpensi, a community in the Challa Electoral Area in the Daffiama-Bussie-Issa District of the Upper West region.
He received the 2023 DBI District Best Physically Challenged Farmer award. Mr Wanye expressed his disappointment over excluding some PWDs from the program.
Mr. Wanye revealed that his name, along with those of other disabled farmers, was omitted from the registration for the PFJ Phase 2 initiative, which aims to provide subsidized seeds and fertilizer to boost agricultural productivity.
This exclusion is particularly concerning given the heightened need for fertilizers due to climate challenges, which have made it increasingly difficult for farmers to achieve good yields without adequate support.
"The weather conditions are becoming more unpredictable, and the soil quality is not what it used to be. We rely heavily on fertilizers to maintain our crop yields," Mr. Wanye stated
"Being left out of the PFJ program has put us in a precarious position. Without timely and adequate supplies, our livelihoods are at risk."
For those that were captured in the register, he expressed concern over the late arrival of seeds and fertilizers. Speaking with palpable frustration, he lamented that the delay has severely compromised the productivity of his farm, along with those of other disabled farmers in the district.
"We depend on the timely application of fertilizer to enhance crop yields, especially given the unpredictable climate conditions. This year's delay has put us at a severe disadvantage," Mr Wanye stated.
The PFJ initiative, launched with the noble intention of promoting food security and providing job opportunities, aims to provide subsidized agricultural inputs, including fertilizers, to farmers across Ghana.
However, the recent lapses in timely delivery have exposed critical shortcomings in the program's implementation, with far-reaching consequences for vulnerable farmers.
Disabled Federation, Upper West Region
On his part, Mr Alhasssan Suleman, Chairman of the Upper West Regional Federation for Persons Living with Disabilities, expressed his worries over the issue, stating that PWDs in the region were unaware of the program.
"It is troubling that many of our members were left out of the PFJ Phase 2 project," Mr. Suleman said.
"We were not informed about the initiative, and as a result, disabled farmers have missed out on essential resources like subsidized fertilizers."
The lack of communication and inclusion has left PWDs, who already face significant challenges in agriculture, without the support needed to enhance their crop yields and secure their livelihoods. Mr Suleman emphasized the importance of inclusive policy implementation and called on the government to ensure that PWDs are not overlooked in future programs.
Mr Salifu Kamwininah Ibrahim, Secretary of the Upper West Regional Federation for Persons with Disabilities, has voiced serious concerns regarding the stigmatization and exclusion faced by disabled farmers under the government's Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) Phase Two program.
Ibrahim criticized the lack of adequate information and outreach to disabled farmers, stating that their exclusion from key government initiatives is exacerbating their challenges.
"The stigmatization of persons with disabilities and their exclusion from essential government programs, like the PFJ Phase Two project, is a significant issue," Ibrahim said.
He pointed out that disabled farmers often do not receive sufficient information about these initiatives, which limits their ability to benefit from available resources and support.
Ibrahim's comments highlight the need for more inclusive practices and better communication to ensure that all farmers, regardless of their physical abilities, can participate effectively in government agricultural programs.
Impact of Exclusion and Delays on Disabled Farmers
The exclusion and delay in the distribution of fertilizers have had a cascading effect on the agricultural productivity of PWDs in the Daffiama-Bussei-Issa District. Many disabled farmers face additional challenges that require more precise planning and support.
For these individuals, timely access to inputs like fertilizer is not just a matter of convenience but a necessity for achieving sustainable yields.
Mr. Wanye highlighted the unique struggles faced by disabled farmers, including limited physical mobility and the need for assistance in farm operations. The delayed supply of fertilizers worsens these challenges, leading to reduced crop yields and financial instability.
"The soil here requires adequate fertilization to support healthy crop growth. Without it, our efforts are in vain," he explained.
The impact is not confined to economic losses; it extends to the social and psychological well-being of these farmers. For many, farming is not only a source of income but also a means of self-sufficiency and dignity. The government's failure to meet its commitments timely undermines these crucial aspects of their lives.
In northern Ghana, about 90% of families rely on agricultural livelihoods, but limited food production can lead to chronic poverty, food insecurity, and malnutrition.
Mr. Wanye is one of many Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the country who are increasingly facing the adverse effects of the exclusion and delays of the inputs.
Launching and Registration
On August 28, 2023, President Nana Akufo Addo launched the second phase of the PFJ program (PFJ 2.0) in Tamale. This phase aims to transition from a direct input subsidy to a direct credit system linked to a structured market arrangement.
The Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) on Tuesday, March 12 launched a nationwide registration of farmers as part of the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs Programme (PFJ Phase 2).
The PFJ Phase 2, which was initiated in August last year, aims to provide an input-credit guarantee system for farmers to address the challenges faced during the first phase of the programme.
The District Agriculture Extension Officer for Daffiama – Bussie- Issa, Mr Andrews Pieolondong said the program faces challenges due to delays in the supply of fertilizers. He expressed concerns over the tardiness, noting that farmers have been persistently contacting him about the fertilizer, which has yet to arrive.
He said, “Farmers are eager to proceed with planting, but the delay in fertilizer supply is causing significant concern”. The extension officer emphasized the importance of timely fertilizer distribution to ensure the success of the planting season and the overall PFJ program.
A Global Perspective
Globally, approximately one billion people live with a disability, with eight out of ten residing in developing countries.
According to the 2021 Population and Housing Census (PHC), Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) make up approximately 8% of Ghana's total population, amounting to around 2,098,138 individuals. Despite their significant potential contributions to national development, they often remain overlooked.
The Way Forward: Recommendations for Improvement
To address the issues arising from the delayed supply of fertilizers under the PFJ Phase 2 initiative, a multi-faceted approach is necessary:
Enhanced Logistics and Distribution Planning: The government must improve its logistical and distribution mechanisms to ensure timely delivery of agricultural inputs. This could involve better coordination with suppliers, more efficient storage solutions, and streamlined transportation processes.
Inclusive Registration Processes: Ensure that PWDs are actively included in the registration and beneficiary lists of all agricultural support programs. This can be achieved by collaborating with disability organizations and local leaders to identify and register eligible PWDs.
Priority for Vulnerable Groups: Special provisions should be made for vulnerable groups, including PWDs, to receive agricultural inputs ahead of the general distribution schedule. This prioritization can help mitigate the unique challenges faced by these farmers.
Communication and Transparency: The government should maintain transparent communication channels with farmers, keeping them informed about potential delays and the reasons behind them. Clear communication can help farmers plan and adjust their farming practices accordingly.
Support Systems and Training: Establish support systems, such as agricultural extension services, specifically tailored to the needs of disabled farmers. Providing training on alternative farming techniques and adaptive technologies can also empower them to better cope with delays and other challenges.
Monitoring and Accountability: Implement a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to assess the effectiveness of the PFJ initiative. Holding accountable those responsible for delays and ensuring corrective actions are taken can help prevent future occurrences.
Conclusion
The Planting for Food and Jobs Phase 2 project holds great promise for enhancing Ghana's agricultural sector. However, the timely delivery of promised inputs is critical to its success. The government must address the logistical challenges that have plagued the initiative, particularly for vulnerable farmers like those in Daffiama-Bussei-Issa.
By prioritizing timely delivery, inclusivity, enhancing support systems, and maintaining transparency, the government can fulfil its commitment to improving the livelihoods of all farmers, including Persons Living with Disabilities.
For Mr. Mohammed Wanye and others like him, the hope is that future agricultural seasons will bring not just better yields, but also a sense of security and empowerment.
Alex Bamele Zaga
Info Radio
Upper West Region
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