70-Year-Old Ashanti Region Farmer Wins Best Farmer Award

In recognition of his exceptional dedication and contributions to the field of agriculture, Nana Owusu Achiaw Brempong, a 70-year-old farmer from the Sekyere Central District in the Ashanti Region, has been honored as the National Best Farmer for 2024. His remarkable achievements in farming, along with his tireless efforts to promote agricultural development, have earned him this prestigious title. As part of the award, Nana Owusu received a cash prize of one million Ghana cedis, along with several other prizes, which acknowledge both his personal accomplishments and his significant impact on the broader agricultural sector. His success story highlights not only his skill and expertise as a farmer but also his role in advancing the agricultural industry and inspiring others in the community.

 

 

Nana Owusu, whose farming journey began over 50 years ago, is the owner of North American Farms, where he employs 168 workers. The farm is known for cultivating a wide range of crops, including cocoa and cashew, showcasing his expertise and commitment to agricultural development. Through his hard work and dedication, Nana Owusu has built a successful farming enterprise that contributes significantly to both local employment and the country’s agricultural sector.

 

In his acceptance speech, Nana Owusu emphasized the critical need to prioritize food security for Ghana’s future. He urged for greater investment in local agriculture to reduce the nation’s reliance on food imports and to promote self-sufficiency in food production.

Nana Owusu’s farm, North American Farms, employs a total of 168 workers, including 18 full-time staff, 150 casual workers, and 6 others who contribute through family connections.

 

Armed with a tertiary education, Nana Owusu has devoted the past 19 years to farming, blending his academic knowledge with hands-on experience in the agricultural industry.

 

Nana Owusu’s farm is exceptionally diversified, with crop production spanning a wide range of areas, including roots and tubers such as cassava, cocoyam, and yam, as well as cereals like maize, vegetables, plantation crops, timber species, and pulses. In addition to crops, Nana’s farm also houses large and small ruminants, both exotic and local poultry, fish ponds, and other livestock.

 

Beyond his farming success, Nana Achiaw is seen as a role model and a strong source of inspiration for the youth in his community, motivating them to pursue agricultural careers and contribute to the sector’s growth.