Chief Inspector Samuel Yao Dzotsi has received the prestigious "Overall Best Farmer” award at the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) for his extensive farming activities alongside his career with the Ghana Police Service at the 40th National Farmers and Fishers Day celebration.

Based at the Tesano Police Depot, in the Okaikwei South Sub-Metropolitan District, Chief Inspector Dzotsi has cultivated an acre each of plantain, maize, and cocoa, and maintains a 5-acre rice field and 9-acre cocoa plantation in the Oti Region.

His farming efforts, supported by six permanent workers, have contributed significantly to local food production.

Chief Inspector Dzotsi was presented with a certificate, a motorised tricycle, Wellington boots, a knapsack sprayer, cutlasses, and compost bags in recognition of his contributions to agriculture and food security in Accra.

Speaking at the event, which was themed “Building Climate-Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security,” the Mayor of Accra,  Elizabeth K.T. Sackey commended farmers and fishers for their dedication and significant role in advancing the nation's development.

She expressed concern over the impact of changing weather patterns, prolonged dry spells, and floods on agriculture, particularly as farming in sub-Saharan Africa relies heavily on rainfall.

Ms Sackey also noted a World Bank projection indicating that by 2030, climate change could push an additional 100 million people into poverty, posing severe risks to the agricultural sector. 

She called for adopting climate-smart agriculture as a strategic response, referencing the government's Planting for Food and Jobs initiative. 

The Mayor highlighted AMA’s support for the programme through public awareness campaigns and fertiliser distribution to local farmers adding that AMA staff had undergone training to enhance farmer registration and data collection efforts using modern technology.

Ms Sackey urged the public to maintain peace in the lead-up to the December elections and advised on preventive measures against cholera, particularly in high-risk areas such as Odawna. 

She recommended frequent handwashing, drinking treated water, consuming thoroughly cooked food, and ensuring proper waste disposal to reduce the spread of the disease, while urging individuals with symptoms to seek medical care promptly.

Chief Inspector Dzotsi expressed gratitude for the recognition and revealed plans to expand his farm to further contribute to Ghana's food production. 

He encouraged his colleagues to remain committed to their efforts, assuring them that continued dedication could earn them the award in the future.

Mr. Kodwo Ennin Fynn, Director of Agriculture at AMA, stressed the importance of climate-smart agricultural practices, commending AMA’s promotion of sustainable approaches such as backyard farming, water harvesting, and organic farming.

He applauded AMA staff for their commitment throughout the year and encouraged residents to seek guidance from the Department of Agriculture to enhance their agricultural yields.

Also, Ladlink School received 1 Polytank (Rambo 250), 4 knapsack sprayers, 2 watering cans, 1 wheelbarrow, 3 spades, 6 bags of compost, 1 bag of fertilizer (NPK), and 3 hoes for its outstanding contributions to education as the "Best Educational Institution."

Addo Quarcoo, awarded "Best Hook and Line Fisherman," received 1 deep freezer, 200 yards of line, and a pair of Wellington boots while Isaac Quashie, the "Best Ali Poli Watsa (APW) Fisherman," was awarded a 25-meter 6 by 3/4" fishing net, an 18 by 1/4 fishing net, 2 life jackets, assorted items, and a pair of Wellington boots.

Reginald Bannerman Quaye recognized as "District Best Livestock Farmer," received 1 deep freezer, 6 bags of feed (broiler starter), and a pair of Wellington boots.

Richel Adeline Boohm, awarded "Best Agricultural Extension Agent," was also given 1 laptop, 1 knapsack sprayer, a pair of Wellington boots, and half a piece of cloth.

John Nii Arday Ofoliquaye, the "Best Physically Challenged Farmer," was awarded a pair of Wellington boots, 1 wheelbarrow, 2 bags of fish feed, 5 basins/bowls, and 1 drum smoker.

Present at the event were the AMA Coordinating Director, Douglas N.K Annoful; Finance Director, Abeiku Amissah; Abola Mantse, Nii Ahene Nunoo, who was the chairman for the occasion; chiefs, Queen Mothers, as well as other traditional leaders, students, security service representatives, departmental heads, and AMA staff.