A delegation of chiefs, rice farmers and concerned youth from Weta has presented a petition to the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, demanding urgent action to address the challenges confronting the Weta Irrigation Scheme.

The farmers say the destruction of their rice fields has severely affected their livelihoods and are calling on the government to urgently address the concerns raised in the petition.

Gideon Kokroko, a member of the concerned youth of the Weta Irrigation Project, has also appealed to the government to provide financial assistance to farmers whose crops and livelihoods have been destroyed by the floods.

“1,203 farmers registered for the project. So far, we have invested a lot in it, but the floods came and consumed everything. We are appealing to the government, as a matter of urgency, to rehabilitate the project for us and provide financial support so that we can feed ourselves while waiting for the next farming season. We are suffering, and we are hungry,” he said.

The petition was received on behalf of the Minister by the Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, Hon. John Dumelo, who assured the delegation of the government’s commitment to rehabilitating the scheme and supporting farmers to restore the once-thriving agricultural project.

“I was informed by your Member of Parliament, Edem Agbana, that some farmers from his constituency wanted to meet me later today. I had an idea of what was contained in the petition. What I can assure you is that it is something that can be done and will be done,” John Dumelo said.

The farmers are demanding the urgent rehabilitation of the facility to restore farmlands severely affected by years of challenges. With more than 1,200 families affected, they are also appealing for appropriate compensation to help them recover their livelihoods.

Additionally, they have called for a thorough investigation into the utilisation of World Bank funds allocated for the redevelopment of the facility.

The situation demands urgent and decisive intervention. The Weta Irrigation Scheme is a critical agricultural asset with enormous potential to boost rice production, create jobs and strengthen Ghana’s food security. Its continued deterioration has come at a significant cost to farmers and their families. Further delays in addressing these challenges could worsen their plight.

Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Ketu North, Edem Agbana, has assured his constituents of his commitment to sustained advocacy to ensure their concerns are addressed.

Speaking at the meeting to present the petition, Mr Agbana said he would continue engaging the relevant authorities to secure concrete action.

“I have assured the delegation that I will continue to engage the relevant authorities and push for concrete, measurable action. The concerns raised must translate into a clear rehabilitation plan, accountability for funds committed to the project, and a credible pathway towards restoring the livelihoods of affected farmers,” he said.