Tanchara (Upper West) - The Upper West Region achieved self-sufficiency in staple food production this year. According to Mr Zenonuba Lankonu, Regional Director of Agriculture, the region would not experience food shortages to make it necessary to appeal for food aid.

Lankonu made this known at the regional celebration of the 18th national farmers day at Tanchara, in the Lawra District. He said area under cultivation increased by 10688 hectares from 348,178 to 358,866 hectares.

The Regional Director said food production rose from 483528 metric tonnes last year to 641923 metric tonnes representing an increase of 32.8 per cent. He said there was no major outbreak of disease among livestock.

Even though there is this assurance of food self-sufficiency all especially the farmers should be judicious in the utilisation of the food, he said. Mahama Mwini, a 50 year-old farmer from the Nadowli District was adjudged the Regional Best Farmer.