The food in Ghana is all about the people, the land, and the labour of the farmers. I had the opportunity to see an event where the farmers proudly showcased the variety of foods grown on their farms. It was a wonderful example of the connection we have with the origin of our meals.
The food that the farmers brought to show off was so rich in quantity and variety. They had large bunches of plantains, fresh vegetables, tubers, and many other types of food crops arranged beautifully for everyone to view. Every single type of crop represented countless hours of hard work by the farmers, from sowing seeds to harvesting.
I was touched both visually and emotionally by what I saw. The farmers standing alongside their crops clearly demonstrated how proud they were of the work they do. The crops were not just being sold for money. They were evidence of the farmers' commitment to feeding their families and sustaining their communities.
Farming is important to day-to-day living in Ghana. It is the foundation upon which most of the food for every household in Ghana is produced. If there were no farmers working hard every day, food security would not exist, and life would be drastically different.
While farming provides food for the family, it also produces income for the country. It provides opportunities for employment and is one of the largest contributors to Ghana's economy. As farmers become successful, the community grows stronger, and so does the country as a whole.
That is why agriculture needs to continue receiving special attention and funding. To fund the farmer means to provide them with the tools to support food security, economic growth, and overall national development. These photos I share represent the fact that there is work involved in getting the food to your table, and those doing this work should receive the respect and financial support they need.