Kumasi, Nov. 6, GNA - The General Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) of Ghana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) has integrated rice farmers from the informal sector into their fold to boost rice production, improve their livelihood and contribute meaningfully towards the country's socio-economic development.

Mr Clement Kabah, Ashanti Regional Industrial Relations Officer of GAWU, announced this when addressing over 50 rice farmers at a day's conference in Kumasi on Thursday.

The Conference was to enable them review their activities and adopt effective pragmatic measures to improve their operations. He noted that rice production had been greatly affected by the influx of rice importation into Ghana and other African Caribbean Pacific (ACP) countries due to trade liberalization. Mr Kabah explained that GAWU had adopted some interventions including education on modern methods of rice production, marketing strategies and financial support to enhance production. He assured them that the Union would collaborate with Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) to give them the necessary guidelines and assistance to improve their yield for local consumption and export. Mr Kabah noted that rice production was prominent in Ejisu-Juaben Municipality, Ahafo Ano North and South, Atwima Nwabiagya, Adansi North and West Districts with over 300 rice farmers Nana Appiah Kubi 62, was elected Chairman of a seven-member Ashanti Regional Executive Committee for a two-year term.

Other executives were, Nana Kwaku Kyei, Vice-Chairman, Mrs Cecilia Anabaun, Second Chairperson, Mr Kingsley Sarkodie, Secretary and Mr Gamor Wilson, First Trustee.