Minister Eric Opoku Unveils Major Irrigation Projects in Ashanti Region Amid National Push for Infrastructure and Judicial Reform

The Government of Ghana has officially commenced work on two major inland valley irrigation projects in the Ashanti Region, aimed at securing the nation's food future through the West Africa Food System Resilience Programme (FSRP). Minister of Food and Agriculture Eric Opoku led the sod-cutting ceremonies at Anunuso and Waamu-Kumi, emphasizing that these initiatives are vital for mitigating food shortages and ensuring year-round agricultural production. These projects, slated for completion within 18 months, will add a total of 289 hectares of irrigable land to the region, providing a reliable water source for roughly 365 farmers who have traditionally relied on unpredictable rainfall patterns.

Specifically, the Anunuso Water Conservation Scheme in the Sekyere East District is set to transform local rice production. By developing 175 hectares for members of the Anunuso Rice Farmers’ Cooperative, the government expects to boost annual yields to approximately 1,100 metric tonnes of milled rice. Beyond food security, the project is a significant economic driver, projected to create approximately 2,500 jobs within the rice value chain. Minister Opoku highlighted that the initiative focuses on five key commodities, including rice and tomatoes, and urged local stakeholders to collaborate closely with technical teams to ensure the sustainability and quality of the production.

In tandem with agricultural advancements, the government and private sector are addressing critical environmental and public health concerns arising from waste management. Following local protests regarding waste disposal at the Adipa Engineered Landfill Site, a 17-member committee, chaired by Chief Nana Kofi Sarh, has been formed to oversee community-led interventions. These include the construction of a new health center, water projects, and scholarship opportunities for residents of Adipa. Meanwhile, in Tamale, environmentalists have raised alarms over the Nyohini and Gumani forest reserves, which are currently threatened by illegal dumping. Experts are calling for stricter enforcement and collaboration between traditional leaders and local authorities to protect these vital biodiversity hubs.

On the institutional front, Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has ushered in Ghana’s 69th Legal Year with a strong call for integrity and the adoption of modern technology in the justice delivery system. Addressing a special service, the Chief Justice stressed that while digital transformation is essential for efficiency, it must be implemented carefully to prevent "digitized corruption" and ensure the most vulnerable citizens are not excluded. This dual focus on infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and judicial reform underscores a broader national effort to strengthen the foundations of Ghanaian society, ensuring that growth is matched by accountability and sustainable management of resources.