By Alex Ababio
Introduction:
In the heart of West Africa, Ghana stands as a testament to the dynamic relationship between humans and their environment. As climate change challenges traditional agricultural practices, a resilient solution emerges from the concrete jungles – urban farming. The story of urban farming in Ghana is one of adaptability, community spirit, and sustainable progress. This article delves into the efforts of urban farming champions, insightful research studies, and the voices of experts who shed light on the transformative potential of cultivating resilience through urban agriculture.
Champion of Urban Farming: Faustina Arkhurst and Mary Perpetua Kwakuyi
At the forefront of urban farming in Ghana is
Faustina Arkhurst a visionary who saw barren cityscapes as potential gardens.
Faustina Arkhurst commitment to restoring the balance between nature and urban life has sparked a movement. She emphasizes, “Urban farming isn’t just about growing crops; it’s about nurturing hope and fostering connections within communities.”
At the helm of Tessark International School, Faustina Arkhurst, daughter of a farmer, pioneered the integration of smart agriculture into the curriculum. Her dedication to environmental stewardship and nutrition fueled this endeavor.
It was Arkhurst who proposed the idea of establishing a demonstration farm on the school premises to Mary Kwakuyi. The outcomes, in terms of produce and education, have been revolutionary for the student community.
These demonstration farms are instructing students in the art of identifying vegetable seeds, nurturing seedlings, managing a nursery, and cultivating vegetables and trees within limited spaces, utilizing recycled containers such as sacks, old car tires, and discarded plastics.
Arkhurst remarked, “Our progress through this project has been substantial. We’ve even relocated the existing school garden to create more room for student involvement.”
Looking ahead, Tessark School is gearing up for the next phase of their smart agriculture venture – cultivating mushrooms. Arkhurst anticipates that this expansion will further enhance the school feeding program, enrich student competencies, and position the institution as a blueprint for other schools aiming to adopt a smart agriculture curriculum.
Sharing her excitement, Ms. Kwakuyi expressed, “The results have exceeded our expectations. We plan to extend our support to additional schools and households in the Sekondi-Takoradi region. Our aim is to enhance nutrition and income for schools and families, while contributing to a greener environment in western Ghana.”
Under the guidance of Ms. Kwakuyi, Goshen Global Vision has diligently planted, nurtured, and systematically mapped 220,000 native tree species across an expansive 11,000-hectare landscape in western Ghana. This notable achievement, combined with her educational and household-focused smart agriculture initiatives, earned Goshen Global Vision an AFR100 grant for outstanding African NGOs in the afforestation sector, a mere three years after its inception.
The Changing Landscape:
According to the United Nations Development Programme, Ghana’s temperature has risen by 1.3°C over the past 50 years, causing erratic rainfall patterns. Traditional agriculture faces unprecedented challenges, with crops failing and livelihoods threatened. In response, urban farming has gained traction, offering a solution to food security and environmental conservation.
A recent study has indicated that urban agriculture is assuming an increasingly vital role in ensuring global food security. By utilizing satellite data, researchers discovered that agricultural activities taking place within a 20km radius of urban areas encompass a land area equivalent to that of the 28-nation European Union. The group of international scientists emphasizes that these results should prompt a reconsideration of the prevailing emphasis on rural areas in agricultural research and developmental efforts.The findings of this research are published in the Environmental Research Letters journal.
Co-author Pay Drechsel, a researcher affiliated with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), elucidated that this study represents the inaugural attempt to chronicle the worldwide extent of food production both within and around urban environments. Drechsel noted, “While conversations about urban agriculture were ongoing, intricate specifics remained elusive. How did urban agriculture measure up against other farming systems? This assessment laid bare its unexpectedly substantial scale.”
The research team acknowledged that the scope of their study might be somewhat conservative, as it primarily focused on urban areas housing populations of 50,000 individuals or more.
Dr. Ama Kudom-Agyemang, a prominent agricultural scientist, asserts, “Urban farming has the potential to mitigate the impact of climate change by reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting food long distances.” Additionally, a study conducted by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health states that urban farming practices have significantly improved the quality of life for urban dwellers in developing nations.
Dr. Kwame Owusu Danso, a seasoned researcher, highlights, “Urban farming introduces innovative techniques like vertical gardens and hydroponics that maximize space and resources.” Dr. Danso’s research, based at the University of Ghana, demonstrates how urban farming empowers communities to control their food supply, enhance nutrition, and increase resilience.
The Science Behind Success:
A study published by the World Bank highlights the role of urban farming in bolstering urban resilience. It showcases examples from cities across Africa, demonstrating that community-driven urban agriculture can reduce vulnerability to climate shocks and enhance social cohesion.
Nurturing Community Connection :
Urban farming transcends food production. It nurtures a sense of community, fostering solidarity among diverse urban populations. The vibrant markets that emerge from these initiatives invigorate local economies and unite people in a shared purpose.
From Rooftops to Revolution:
Vertical gardens on city rooftops exemplify the innovative spirit of urban farming. They reclaim underutilized spaces, redefine urban landscapes, and provide a canvas for sustainable growth. Such initiatives breathe life into Ghana’s urban sprawl.
Recommendations for a Greener Future :
1. Government Support: Collaborative policies that recognize and support urban farming as a legitimate agricultural practice can catalyze change.
2. Education: Integrating urban farming into school curricula can nurture future generations with an appreciation for sustainable food systems.
3. Research Funding: Investing in local research studies can provide crucial data to refine urban farming methods and their impact on climate resilience.
In conclusion, Ghana’s journey towards climate resilience through urban farming is an inspiring tale of human determination and adaptability. Champions like George Asante, along with research and expert insights, illuminate the path forward. As the nation navigates the challenges of climate change, the synergy between urban spaces and fertile gardens offers a blueprint for a more sustainable and connected future.
