Agronomist recommends new maize seeds for farmers

Mr Aaron Akyea, an agronomist, at the weekend recommended the “30y87” seed for maize farmers engage in commercial production for improved yields.

He explained that the seed, imported from South Africa and certified by the Crop Research Institute, had not only the potential to increase yields as compared to other varieties but also had a competitive market price.

Mr Akyea told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in an interview at Wenchi that aside the high international demand, the maize contained corn oil and other ingredients good for the local poultry industry.

He said an acre could produce more than 40 maxi bags when cultivated under best farm management practices, especially proper application of fertilizer.

Mr Akyea said the variety was good for all weather conditions and advised farmers to strictly adhere to approved recommendations for best outcomes.

He noted with regret that Ghanaian farmers continued to wallow in poverty even though farming remained a lucrative business internationally and stressed the need for financial support for farmers to enable them move from peasant to commercial farming.

Mr Akyea appealed to farmers to seek technical advice from extension officers periodically and groups to enable them access loans to expand their economic activities.

Source: GNA