Cassava processing facility that will end post-harvest losses in Ahanta West commissioned

A cassava processing facility has been commissioned at Apemanim in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region to reduce post-harvest losses and improve farmers’ incomes.

The project is financed by the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and the Norwegian Government, with counterpart funding from the Ahanta West Municipal Assembly. An allocation of GH¢621,943.03 was released to the assembly under the LoCAL-ACE facility towards the project.

The plant will process fresh cassava into dough and gari, providing a market for farmers who struggle to find buyers during bumper harvests.

In an address read on his behalf, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, said the initiative would help farmers adapt to climate change and strengthen the local economy.

“I therefore urge the Ahanta West Municipal Assembly to prioritize the effective operation and maintenance of the facility. This must include making adequate budgetary allocation for maintenance, assigning clear management responsibilities, undertaking regular inspections, and ensuring that any operational challenges are addressed promptly,” he said.

“I also call on the beneficiary communities to take ownership of the facilities. Use them responsibly and support the assembly in safeguarding the investment against neglect, misuse and deterioration.”

The Municipal Chief Executive, Ebenezer Kofi Aidoo, said a business model was being developed to ensure efficient management, incorporate community ownership and protect residents’ interests.

“We believe that it helps our farmers. They are not going to struggle again when they plant the cassava, and when there is a bumper harvest, we get to hear they are not getting buyers. This factory is here to buy them,” he added

Some local farmers welcomed the facility, describing it as a timely intervention to address their marketing challenges.

By Abraham Mensah