Farmers and officials in the Upper East Region are expressing renewed optimism following the World Bank’s $125 million investment in rehabilitating the Vea Left Bank canal system — a move widely hailed as transformative for agriculture in the area.

The initiative, under the West Africa Food Systems Resilience Programme, seeks to improve year-round farming, enhance food security, and alleviate poverty across key farming communities, including Zaare, Nyariga, and Sumburungu.

Dominic Anarigide, Managing Director of the Irrigation Company of Upper Region (ICOUR), described the project as a “game-changer” for thousands of farmers dependent on the Vea Dam scheme.

“This intervention will clear blocked canals, construct lateral links to farms, and implement modern irrigation systems that ensure a reliable water supply throughout the year,” he noted.

The rehabilitation work will cover approximately 850 hectares, including upgrades to canal infrastructure, development of farm access roads, and the adoption of climate-smart farming practices.

Dr. Ashwini Sebastian, Agriculture Portfolio Manager for the World Bank in Ghana, emphasised that the project is designed with sustainability and innovation in mind.

“Alongside infrastructure, we are supporting farmers with high-quality seeds, training programmes, and the introduction of efficient irrigation methods such as automation and California-style systems,” she said.

“We are also building bridges to improve access between communities and their farmlands.”

Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Atanga, welcomed the project as a much-needed step toward sustainable agriculture in the region.

“Initially, the Upper East was not included in the national dam rehabilitation plan, but consistent advocacy has changed that,” he said.

He urged local residents to protect the project lands from encroachment and encouraged youth to take advantage of mechanised farming opportunities under the government’s Feed Ghana initiative.

Despite widespread enthusiasm, there is caution among farmers due to past setbacks. A government-funded rehabilitation of the Right Bank canal — launched four years ago — remains incomplete due to financial difficulties.

Farmers are hopeful that the World Bank-backed Left Bank project will avoid similar delays.

With parliamentary approval pending, construction is expected to commence by the end of 2025, with completion targeted within 12 to 18 months.

If successful, the project is expected to dramatically boost agricultural productivity and resilience in the region, serving as a catalyst for long-term economic growth and food security in northern Ghana.