The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research-Savanna Agricultural Research Institute (CSIR-SARI) recently hosted 197 farmers from Kpalsogu, Dimabi, Dundo, Tingoli, Cheyoni, Zulanyili, and Nyankpala at its newly inaugurated Technology Park. This visit introduced farmers to advanced agricultural innovations designed to boost productivity and promote sustainability in the region.
A Hub for Practical Learning and Innovation
The CSIR-SARI Technology Park, established in collaboration with the West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (CORAF), serves as a hands-on demonstration hub for modern farming solutions. Farmers had the opportunity to:
- Engage directly with CSIR-SARI experts.
- Observe live demonstrations of precision farming techniques.
- Learn about sustainable irrigation practices and climate-resilient crop varieties.
Dr. Francis Kusi, Project Coordinator, underscored the importance of such initiatives, stating:
“Our mission is to equip farmers with knowledge they can immediately apply to improve their yields and livelihoods. Through visits like these, we bridge the gap between research and real-world application, ensuring that farmers have the tools and information they need to thrive.”
Key Highlights of the Visit
During the visit, farmers were introduced to a range of innovations, including:
- High-yield crop varieties tailored to local conditions.
- Soil improvement techniques to enhance fertility and sustainability.
- Environmentally friendly practices aimed at conserving resources while increasing output.
This immersive experience allowed farmers to ask questions, interact with technologies, and understand how to integrate these solutions into their own farming systems.
Farmer Perspectives
Farmers expressed optimism about the impact of the Technology Park on their agricultural practices. A farmer from Tingoli shared:
“It’s inspiring to see new ways of farming that can improve our yields. Today’s visit gave us practical insights and hope for a better future in agriculture.”
Advancing Sustainable Agriculture
CSIR-SARI’s commitment to engaging farmers through training and technology adoption is critical to building a resilient agricultural sector. With ongoing support from CORAF, the Technology Park continues to connect farmers with cutting-edge research and innovations.
This initiative reflects CSIR-SARI’s dedication to creating a sustainable, food-secure future for Ghana, empowering farmers to adapt to challenges and seize new opportunities in agriculture.