Women farmers in Kobilmahigu trained on intercropping and organic farming to boost soil fertility and crop yields

Kobilmahigu, Tolon District (Northern Region), Oct. 23. Over 100 women farmers in the Kobilmahigu community have been trained on intercropping and organic farming practices to improve soil fertility and enhance sustainable crop yields. The training, organised by the Savannah Women Farmers Association (SWFA), is part of the Climate Change Resilience Landscape Restoration and Improved Livelihoods project, funded by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), aimed at promoting climate-smart agriculture and strengthening the resilience of smallholder women farmers in northern Ghana.

Madam Salamatu Sakara, Chairperson of SWFA, said the initiative seeks to build women’s capacity in sustainable farmland management and agroecology to promote environmental restoration and improve livelihoods. She revealed plans to establish a fenced community garden powered by a solar borehole to support year-round farming. “This garden will not only serve as a source of income but will also support the Village Savings and Loans Scheme already operating in the community, helping women save and strengthen their financial resilience,” she said. Madam Sakara urged participants to apply the knowledge gained and share it with other women farmers, while prioritising tree planting to restore vegetation and ensure sustainable crop production.

Mr Edmund Ansaayiri, Agricultural Extension Agent for the Tali Operational Area, facilitated the training and encouraged the women to adopt intercropping as a sustainable method to maintain soil fertility and boost productivity. He explained that growing two or more crops on the same field enhances soil nutrients, reduces pest infestations, and promotes biodiversity. “When crops like maize and legumes are grown together, the legumes fix nitrogen into the soil naturally, reducing dependence on chemical fertilisers,” he said. Mr Ansaayiri further advised combining intercropping with organic farming techniques such as composting and using animal manure, cautioning against excessive application of agrochemicals that can degrade soil and harm the environment.

The workshop featured practical demonstrations on intercropping methods, compost preparation, and other best agronomic practices. Participants expressed gratitude for the training, noting that adopting intercropping and organic farming would help reduce production costs, maintain soil health, and improve long-term productivity.

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