Government has converted and distributed 100 irrigation machines seized from illegal mining sites to farmer cooperatives across the Volta Region to boost irrigation farming, enhance food production and improve livelihoods.

Volta Regional Minister, Mr. James Gunu, who supervised the distribution, said the initiative demonstrates government’s commitment to turning seized assets from destructive activities into tools for national development.

“This intervention strengthens agricultural modernization, food security and rural employment. Instead of compounding the damage caused by illegal mining, these machines are being redirected to support our farmers and sustain communities,” he noted.

Each district, including Central Tongu, received five irrigation machines to support year-round cultivation and reduce dependence on rainfall. Mr. Gunu urged cooperatives to adopt responsible usage and maintenance practices to ensure long-term benefits.

Mr. Dodzi Addison Mornyuie, Central Tongu District Chief Executive, described the initiative as timely in addressing the effects of climate change on agriculture. He said irrigation farming was critical to stabilising rural incomes, sustaining food supply and building resilience against erratic rainfall.

“Instead of destroying nature, these machines will now grow food and feed the nation. This is not only a victory for farmers but also for environmental sustainability,” he said.

Some beneficiary farmers expressed gratitude, saying irrigation facilities had long been a pressing need. “For years, many of us lost crops due to poor rainfall. With these machines, we can now farm throughout the year and increase yields. This support gives us hope and dignity as farmers,” they said.