Editorial
Establish processing plants to boost effort of farmers
Dear Editor,
Over the past, farmers and the agricultural sector in general played significant roles and contributed immensely to the economic growth of the country. It is not surprising that successive governments have and continue to invest in the Agricultural sector.
The investments include the provision of farming equipment and training for farmers to build their capacity in agriculture.
Also, there had been various policies such as the Planting for Food and Jobs and the Feed Ghana initiatives by the erstwhile NPP and the current NDC governments to transform the agricultural sector.
Despite these interventions, I find it difficult to understand why the agricultural sector continues to struggle. Farmers in the country continue to cry over the lack of support from the government.
At a recent workshop, a team from Germany indicated their willingness to invest in a particular type of yam called ‘puna’ which contained a certain type of sweetness used for producing ice cream in Germany.
Also, a friend in a recent conversation told me how his father considered backing out of farming because he struggles to get a market for his produce.
I believe my friend’s father is not the only one facing such an issue. To address this, I think it would be appropriate for the country to establish processing companies to process some of these farm produce.
With their establishment, the government can buy farm produce from our farmers to process them into end products.
King Sam,
Tesano.
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
