Farmers in Yuonuuri Protest Rising Farm Input Costs, Call for Government Support

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Farmers in Younuuri, located within the Jagluu Electoral Area of the Wa West District, have voiced mounting concerns over escalating agricultural costs and inadequate government assistance. The farmers highlighted the high expense of tractor services, low market prices for their produce, and the absence of agricultural grants as major challenges threatening their livelihoods.

According to local farmers, the cost of tractor services in 2025 has risen to 300 cedis per acre. In contrast, the price of a bowl of maize ranges between 8 to 10 cedis, depending on the market. This disparity underscores the difficulty farmers face in covering costs, especially when their produce fetches low prices at sale. Many farmers explained that they often sell their harvests at a loss or struggle to repay credit taken for fertilizers and other inputs.

The farmers also expressed frustration over the lack of government support. None indicated having benefited from any agricultural grants or subsidy programs. Speaking to Info Radio, Mr. Nong Saamana, a local farmer, lamented the plight of farmers and the impact on their produce.

Similarly, Mr. Taapuo Kognmenee pointed to the high cost of fertilizers, which prevents many farmers from applying necessary nutrients to their crops. He called on the government to assist with affordable tractor services and fertilizer subsidies to ease their financial burden.

Another farmer, Mr. Nakaa Kpie-uutey, emphasized that mechanized plowing is essential for good yields, but the rising costs threaten their production capacity. He appealed for urgent intervention to support their farming activities.

In a stern warning, Mr. Benard Timbouri threatened to boycott the upcoming elections if the government fails to provide meaningful assistance to farmers.

The farmers’ collective appeal underscores the urgent need for policy action to support the agricultural community in Younuuri and ensure their livelihoods are protected amid challenging economic conditions.