2018 IFDC Annual Report
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2019-06
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Abstract
Northern Ghana, known as the nation's breadbasket, has faced persistent high poverty rates and low per capita incomes. The Feed the Future Ghana Agriculture Technology Transfer (ATT) project, implemented from 2013 to 2018, aimed to revolutionize the agriculture sector in the region. The project facilitated access to agricultural technologies, improved seeds, fertilizers, and production methods by forming partnerships with smallholder farmers, agribusinesses, and research institutions. ATT strengthened the seed and agro-input value chains through a holistic approach and promoted good agricultural practices, integrated soil fertility management, and water management technologies. The project also focused on building the capacity of local private sector entities, government bodies, and research institutions to foster a dynamic agriculture sector. The involvement of local implementing partners ensured broad coverage and sustainability of project interventions in remote communities. ATT's achievements include establishing certified seed production by the private sector, improved seed distribution networks, enhanced soil fertility management through evidence-based practices, and introducing water-harvesting technologies for dual cropping. These interventions have increased farm yields, improved incomes, and greater resilience for over 200,000 farmers in remote areas of northern Ghana. The project's success is attributed to the collaboration between diverse stakeholders, including farmers, businesses, researchers, and regulatory bodies. ATT has laid a solid foundation for sustainable agricultural growth in the region by strengthening the private seed industry and the public research system. Additionally, IFDC, the implementing organization, has researched soil and fertilizer management, focusing on maximizing nutrient use efficiency and developing cost-effective and environmentally sustainable production technologies.
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Seed, Degradation, Agricultural technology