The Deputy Director of the Ghana Irrigation Development Authority (GIDA), Prosper Glitse, made the appeal during a site inspection for the project.

He stressed the need for collaboration between chiefs and landowners to ensure the smooth execution of the initiative, which aims to enhance agricultural productivity and food security.

The Irrigation for Wealth Creation project, introduced by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), forms part of the government’s strategy to mitigate the impact of climate change and unpredictable rainfall on farming activities.

However, unresolved land disputes pose a major risk to its implementation.

During a visit to one of the proposed sites at Pai Katanga, Prosper Glitse warned that any delays in resolving land ownership issues could negatively affect the livelihoods of farmers who rely on irrigation for consistent crop production.

He called on traditional authorities to mediate conflicts and foster unity among stakeholders to prevent setbacks.

The chiefs acknowledged the significance of the project and pledged to facilitate dialogue among conflicting parties to ensure a peaceful resolution of disputes.

They affirmed their commitment to creating a conducive environment for the initiative, which is expected to transform agriculture in the region.

Meanwhile, the Oti Regional Director of Agriculture, O’Brien Nyarko, has encouraged the youth to embrace irrigation farming as a means of wealth creation.

Speaking after a community engagement and land inspection at the Biafra community of Pai Katanga, he noted that with over 10,000 hectares of land available for irrigation, young farmers have a great opportunity to increase their yields and secure sustainable livelihoods through modern farming techniques.

Nana Mprah Besemuna III wished President Akufo-Addo had appointed the young and experienced person as the Regional Minister earlier.

He urged the Minister to bring his expertise and experience to help develop the region which is already struggling for socio-economic development.

The chief made these remarks when DSP Machator (Rtd) paid a courtesy call on the President of Oti House of Chiefs to seek his blessings and advice at his palace at Kete-Krachi in the Krachi West Municipality.

Nana Mprah expressed hope that DSP Machator (Rtd) works closely with chiefs since they are the custodians of the land to bring development to the region.

DSP Machator (Rtd) commended the chiefs and the people for ensuring peace and stability towards the development of the region as he looked forward to effective collaboration for development and investment in the area.

On conflicts and chieftaincy disputes, the Minister appealed to the chiefs and residents to help bring peace to the region.

DSP Machator (Rtd) said President Akufo-Addo has placed a lot of responsibility on him, hence the need to come together and fight for development.

Profile

Rtd DSP Daniel Machator was appointed by President Akufo-Addo to replace Joshua Makubu.

Until his appointment as Regional Minister, Rtd DSP Machator was the Head of the Public Affairs Unit at the University of Media, Arts and Communication ( UniMAC).

He also served as Deputy Chief Public Relations Officer for the Ghana Prisons Service and was an accomplished correctional manager, writer, speaker, and award-winning columnist.