A 60-year-old farmer from the Nkoranza South District in the Brong Ahafo Region, James Obeng Boateng, was today December 7, 2018, adjudged the overall National Best Farmer for 2018.
President Nana Akufo-Addo, who graced the 34th National Farmers’ Day celebration held at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium at Tamale in the Northern Region, handed a cheque for GHS 480,000 in addition to other prizes to James Obeng Boateng
The 2018 National Best Farmer holds a tertiary education, he also holds a farming certification from South Africa and has been farming for 18 years.
He has a total of 102 employees comprising 45 full-time workers, 55 casual workers and 2 others from his family. He is married with six children.
He has several acres of farm with roots and tubers, cereals, vegetables, plantation crops, and timber (teak).
Besides crops, he has a large herd of cattle, sheep and goats. In addition, he has a poultry farm and 100 beehives and he also has two fish ponds with tilapia and catfish.
At the same event, a farmer from the Central region, Charity Akotia, was also adjudged the 1st Runner-Up while Alex Frimpong from the Kwahu Afram Plains of the Eastern Region took the 2nd Runner-Up position.
Meanwhile, speaking at the event, President Akufo-Addo announced a package of 24 scholarships for the children of farmers and fishermen to pursue higher education.
“This year, government has added to the national awards package for farmers and fisherfolk, a total of 24 scholarships for the wards of farmers and fisher folks”.
He pointed out that the scholarships are for local tertiary programmes ranging from first degree t0o PhD in any agricultural subject of their choice.
ALSO READ:National Farmers Day 2018: Best farmer awardee dies ahead of event
