By Adam Siaka
In a bid to promote agricultural extension services in the country, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has convened a five-day workshop in Koforidua, the eastern regional capital, to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to produce high-quality radio content program tailored to the needs of farmers.
This is through the use of electronic devices like radio and telephone, among others, to enhance the services of agric extension officers.
The participants from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) included Women in Agric and Development, WIAD, Regional Extension Officers, and Crop officers.
There are 32 radio presenters from the 16 regions.
Welcoming participants, a Director from the Agric Extension Directorate of MOFA, Dr. Gabriel Owusu, emphasised the importance of commitment from all stakeholders to ensure the success of the project.
He tasked the Agric Extension Advisory Service hubs in the regions, as well as radio presenters, to remain dedicated to the program’s objective, which also aims at ensuring the successful implementation of the E-Agriculture Policy and programme.
A facilitator and editor with GBC, Madam Joyce Gyekye, discussed the ethical considerations and standards essential for presenting farm radio programs effectively.
Using the acronym “VOICES,” she highlighted the importance of valuing farmers, providing opportunities for all to be heard, delivering clear information from credible sources, and ensuring convenience and consistency as well as sustainability in all programs.
Additionally, she introduced the “FAIR” standard, emphasising the need for fairness, accuracy, integrity, and respect for farmers during the program.
A former Editor of Ghana Broadcasting Corporation and a consultant, Emmanuel Kumah Drah, delved into the history and significance of radio in promoting agriculture, dating back to 1975 in Zambia, and stressed the importance of the hubs to drive positive change in farming communities through radio.
A representative from FAO, Mark Kwame Offei, expressed the organisation’s commitment to the program by providing the needed equipment to ensure food security and a better livelihood for farmers.