Maize farmers in Berekum are facing one of their toughest seasons in recent years, as delayed rainfall and an unusually early harmattan have severely affected crop growth.
A tour of local farms revealed stunted maize plants, dried leaves, shrinking cobs, and cracked soil—conditions farmers say they have rarely experienced.
“For many of us, the rains came too late,” said Yahaya Toure Mohammed, a maize farmer at Kutre No. 1. “Uneven moisture caused poor germination—some seeds grew, others didn’t. We planted with hope, but the soil was too dry.”
Agricultural officers warn that the early harmattan is worsening the situation, with dry winds rapidly stripping moisture from crops. Many plants now display brown, curled leaves—a clear sign of stress from intense heat and dryness.
Experts predict a 40–70% drop in maize yields if conditions persist, potentially driving up prices next year. Weeds, which thrive even in harsh conditions, are further competing with crops for scarce moisture, adding to farmers’ concerns.
Agric Extension Officer Alhassan Augustine has advised farmers to consider harmattan-resistant maize varieties and adopt tree-planting practices to improve microclimatic conditions and support rainfall retention.
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