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Welcome to our dedicated page highlighting the impactful work being done through the Feed the Future Resilience in Northern Ghana Systems Strengthening (RING II) project in the Bawku West District. This initiative focuses on building resilience, enhancing nutrition, and promoting sustainable economic growth in vulnerable communities.
About the RING II Project
The RING II initiative empowers smallholder farmers, especially women and youth, while strengthening local governance systems for sustainable agricultural production and nutrition improvements. Through collaborative efforts, we address recurring challenges such as food insecurity, malnutrition, and climate variability in the Upper East Region of Ghana.
Project inception meeting with District Director of Agriculture and staff of the Bawku West.
Key Project Milestones
- Project Inception and Stakeholder Engagement
We commenced with an inception meeting involving the District Department of Agriculture, community leaders, and key stakeholders. This meeting:
- Introduced the project goals and interventions.
- Clarified roles and responsibilities for all stakeholders.
- Fostered collaboration to address local priorities.
District Director Madam Diana Akumanue designated officers to support project implementation, setting a foundation for cooperation and transparency.
- Community Engagement
Engaging 20 beneficiary communities, we collaborated with traditional authorities, opinion leaders, and residents to:
- Outline project objectives and interventions.
- Encourage community participation and ownership.
- Emphasize inclusivity, involving women and youth in decision-making.
Local leaders demonstrated strong support, selecting community members as Community Extension Volunteers (CEVs) to facilitate project activities.
- Selection and Training of Community Extension Volunteers (CEVs)
With guidance from district agricultural officers, we selected 40 CEVs from 20 communities. These volunteers will:
- Act as liaisons between project staff and community members.
- Promote best practices in agriculture and nutrition.
- Support implementation through training sessions and field demonstrations.
- Beneficiary Selection and Support
We identified 600 women and youth as project beneficiaries from Mother-to-Mother Support Groups. These individuals were chosen for their commitment to improving household nutrition and resilience. They will receive:
- Training on climate-smart agricultural practices.
- Resources to establish sustainable livelihoods.
- Establishment of Dry Season Cluster Gardens
Three communities—Widnaba Natinga, Gozeisi, and Tonde—were selected for dry season gardening initiatives. One-acre plots in each community are being prepared, benefiting 90 project beneficiaries and ensuring sustainable vegetable production through fenced and irrigated gardens.
- Partnerships for Poultry and Rabbit Production
We partnered with local farms to:
- Supply guinea keets and rabbits to beneficiaries.
- Train participants on sustainable poultry and rabbitry practices.
Private partners, including Atule Jimmy Anyagbilla Farms and Gladys Mbaa Farms, are integral to this collaboration.
Community entry & stakeholder engagement in the Bawku West District
Building Knowledge and Skills
Climate-Smart Agriculture: Training emphasizes soil health, biodiversity, and sustainable practices to combat climate challenges.
Poultry Production: Best practices include breed selection, disease prevention, and resilient housing techniques.
Rabbit Production: Techniques focus on healthy breeding, disease management, and maximizing profitability through humane practices and value-added products.
Agric Extension Agents.
Community Impact and Sustainability
Our commitment to empowering local communities through inclusive and sustainable initiatives is already yielding positive outcomes. Traditional authorities, women, and youth are working together to drive long-term change and ensure project success.
Stay connected to witness how our joint efforts continue to transform lives in Bawku West District.
By: Jonathan Adabre | TAMA Foundation Universal
