Bibiani (W/R) Feb 23, GNA - Research and agricultural extension officers have been challenged to come out with innovation that would aid farmers to increase food production.

They should work closely with the district agricultural development units on the implementation of interventions that would significantly help farmers to raise crop yield and returns.

Mr Emmanuel Andoh Mensah, Western Regional Co-ordinator of Research Extension - Farmers Linkage committee, (RELC) made the call at a two-day workshop organized for poultry, food crop and cocoa farmers in the Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai District at Bibiani in the Western Region. Agricultural extension officers also participated. It was organized to sensitize farmers on - the cultivation of improved varieties, suitable land selection, recommended fertilizers and agro-chemicals- to boost production.

Mr Andoh said disease and pest attack, lack of credit, bottlenecks in marketing and inadequate extension workers were major problems affecting crop and animal production in the district. He spoke of plans to intensify technical services for farmers through field work and improving access to credit. Mr Francis Nkrumah Ntiedu, the District Agricultural Officer advised farmers to cooperate with extension officers and adopt new farming technologies to increase production. He appealed to the government to assist farmers with storage facilitates to prevent post harvest losses.