Bonia women farmers appeal for support to boost farming
The association, which is actively involved in the cultivation of rice, maize, soya beans, vegetables, as well as catfish farming and trading, under the Tono Irrigation Scheme.
The Bonia Women Association, a farming cooperative group based in Navrongo, has made a heartfelt appeal to government authorities, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and stakeholders to support their farming activities, citing significant challenges that hinder their productivity.
The association, which is actively involved in the cultivation of rice, maize, soya beans, vegetables, as well as catfish farming and trading, under the Tono Irrigation Scheme, is struggling due to limited access to essential farming resources such as tractors, fertilizers, and combined harvesters.
Speaking on Teo Kweem Lara on Mike FM on Monday April 28, 2025, the leader of the association, Joana Ajegebura, highlighted the pressing issues affecting women farmers in the community.
“The lack of access to tractors, fertilizers, and harvesters has made land preparation and harvesting extremely difficult for us. These challenges are not just affecting our farms—they’re affecting our families and the entire community,” she said.
She, therefore, called on the government and development partners to provide subsidized farm machinery and make fertilizers more affordable. In addition, she urged for increased financial support to help women access low-interest loans that would allow them to expand their farming and trading ventures.
She stressed that empowering women farmers, especially in rural farming communities, is vital to improving food security, enhancing family welfare, and driving rural economic development.
“By supporting women farmers, the government can help improve food security, empower women, and contribute to the well-being of families and communities,”
“Provide more financial support to women farmers to enable them to access loans at low interest rates and expand their farming and trading activities,” Ajegebura added.
The Bonia Women Association’s appeal underscores the broader struggles faced by many rural women farmers across the country, and the urgent need for targeted support from government to enable them to thrive in agriculture.
Mike 105.3 FM | Navrongo | Bernard Ane Azukuzia
