ReDIAL calls for compensation, legal reforms to resolve farmer-herder conflicts
Partners implementing the ReDIAL project have called for compensation for all parties to address the growing tensions between farmers and herders.
Additionally, Dr Paul Osei-Tutu, one of the lead researchers from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology(KNUST), called for clear by-laws that ensure sustainable and peaceful coexistence.
Violent clashes, predominantly involving Fulani herdsmen and farmers, often erupt over grazing lands and water sources in rural areas.
Dr Osei-Tutu emphasized the need for legislative frameworks that support the harmonious interaction of both groups.
He spoke at a multi-stakeholder dialogue in Accra on June 26, 2024, under the Research for Development and Innovation Agriculture and Learning (ReDIAL) project, a European Union-funded initiative.
Member of Parliament for Wa East, Dr Godfred Seidu Jasaw, was also present at the event and stressed the importance of integrating cattle ranching with crop farming.
Dr Jasaw highlighted the findings from the KNUST research, suggesting that peaceful coexistence is achievable with well-defined by-laws.
“As Parliament, we are open to information that can help us formulate laws and regulations. We aim to ensure district assemblies can enforce these policies effectively,” Dr. Jasaw stated.
He emphasized the need for a nuanced approach, arguing against an outright ban on herding activities.
Dr. Jasaw assured stakeholders of Parliament’s commitment to reviewing the draft cattle ranching bill submitted to the legislature.
He reiterated Parliament’s readiness to support initiatives that refine the legal framework and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
The legislator urged the European Union to consider funding additional phases of the Re-DIAL project, praising its impact on agriculture, women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
He highlighted the project’s innovative approach to soil testing and nutrient management, which has significantly reduced farmers’ fertilizer costs.
Adding his voice, the MP for Manso Nkwanta, George Kwabena Obeng Takyi, called for regulation to ensure a peaceful coexistence between the farmers and herdsmen.
He assured that the Food, Agriculture, and Cocoa Affairs Committee would thoroughly review the draft bill and collaborate with the sector minister to address all concerns.
The Research for Development and Innovation Agriculture and Learning (ReDIAL) is a four-year project in Ghana funded by the European Union (EU).
The project is being implemented in Ghana by a consortium consisting of Friends of the Nation (FoN), Tropenbos Ghana, and the Faculty of Renewable Natural Resources of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (FRNR-KNUST), supported by SAYeTECH company and SESI Technology.
ReDIAL has also introduced soil analysis kits to help farmers optimize their use of fertilizers.
This initiative aims to enhance agricultural productivity by providing tailored soil maps and nutrient requirements.