Research scientists at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research Savannah Agricultural Research Institute (CSIR- SARI-Wa) in the Upper West region of Ghana are endeavoring to elevate the region into a significant onion production hub. Despite the region's modest current production levels, with Karni in the Lambusie District being a noted center, particularly among the blind onion farmers' association, efforts are underway to enhance output through the adoption of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) by local farmers.
The CSIR- SARI-Wa is actively engaging farmers in knowledge transfer sessions and value-addition techniques to bolster onion production resilience and sustainability. This initiative aims to position the Upper West region on the global market, thereby generating revenue for Ghana. Onion, a key vegetable crop in West Africa, has historically lacked focused development in the region, a situation the CSIR-SARI-Wa seeks to change by debunking myths about onion cultivation viability through demonstration farms showcasing new, high-yield, and climate-resilient varieties such as 'Idol' and 'Texas' tropical.
During a farmers' field day, Dr. George Yakubu Mahama, an agronomist with CSIR/SARI Wa, encouraged participants, especially women farmers, to approach onion farming with a business mindset, leveraging the support provided by CSIR/SARI to improve their livelihoods. Mr. Hashim Ibrahim, an Assistant Research Scientist and Biometrician introduced participants to experimental onion cultivation techniques, including the use of organic and inorganic fertilizers, to identify the optimal fertilization strategies for the 'Idol' and 'Texas' tropical varieties.
Dr. Iddrisu Yahaya, an agricultural economist, emphasized the importance of demonstration farms in enabling farmers to acquire practical knowledge, crucial for effective farm management and understanding the economic benefits of onion cultivation, including its potential for food security, income generation, and health benefits. Mr. Opoku Godwin, a soil scientist, underscored the importance of soil testing before cultivation, urging farmers to embrace onion production as a viable agricultural enterprise.
The GAP project was highlighted as a cornerstone for successful crop production, with Mr. Asieku Yahaya encouraging female farmers to seize the opportunity to enhance their income through onion cultivation. Feedback from participants in Kpongu and surrounding villages indicated a high level of satisfaction and readiness to adopt the new agricultural technologies introduced by CSIR-SARI Wa.
Madam Sherifa Daud, a participant from Kpongu, expressed gratitude for the initiative, optimistic that with CSIR-SARI Wa's support, the Upper West region could become a leading onion producer and exporter, drawing inspiration from successful models in Niger and Burkina Faso.
Source: Modern Ghana