Cocoa Farmers Told To Stop Smuggling

Kofiko (Brong Ahafo) 8 Dec.,

Mr.. Mathew Osei Gyasi, District Chief Executive for Jaman has appealed to cocoa farmers to stop smuggling their produce to neighbouring countries since development is funded with national revenue. Mr.. Gyasi was addressing a rally at Kofiko near drobo to mark this year's celebration of the national Farmers' Day in the District. He called on Farmers to form co-operative unions to enable them to get assistance from the district assembly through its poverty alleviation programme. Mr.. Gyasi advised them to gaurd against bush fires to protect their farms and the environment. He said the District Assembly has passed a bye-law against the setting of bush fires and warned that any one caught would be dealt with severely. Dr.. J.N. Karimu, district Director of Agriculture called on Farmers to work harder than before to enable some of them to win national awards next year. Mr.. Adu Twum Marbour from Dwenem was declared the district best farmer and was given a knapsack, spraying machine, three cutlasses, one piece of wax print, a pair of Wellington boots, a kerosine lamp, "T shirts and a certificate. Nana Ofori Bediako II, Krontihene of Drobo Traditional Area who chaired the function appealed to government to ensure that loans and other assistance are given to farmers for national food security. Nana Bediako commended the government for instituting the Farmers' Day.

Gri.