Irrigation plays a crucial role in agriculture and food production for several reasons:

Water availability: Irrigation ensures a consistent and reliable water supply for crops, especially in regions with irregular rainfall patterns or drought conditions. This helps farmers maintain crop growth and productivity throughout the year.

Increased crop yields: Irrigation allows farmers to control the timing and amount of water applied to their crops, leading to higher yields and better-quality produce. Proper irrigation management can significantly increase agricultural productivity and profitability.

Diversification of crops: Irrigation enables farmers to grow a wider variety of crops that may not be suited to the local climate or rainfall patterns. This diversification can help improve food security, increase income opportunities, and reduce the reliance on a single crop.

Mitigation of climate risks: Irrigation can help farmers mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as droughts, floods, and extreme temperatures. By providing a stable water supply, irrigation systems can help crops withstand adverse weather conditions and reduce the risk of crop failure.

Sustainable agriculture: Efficient irrigation practices, such as drip irrigation and precision farming, can help conserve water resources and reduce water waste. Sustainable irrigation techniques promote water efficiency, soil conservation, and environmental protection, ensuring the long-term viability of agricultural systems.

Rural development: Irrigation infrastructure development can stimulate economic growth in rural areas by creating employment opportunities, improving agricultural productivity, and enhancing food security. Access to irrigation can also empower smallholder farmers and contribute to poverty reduction in rural communities.

Overall, irrigation is essential for ensuring food security, increasing agricultural productivity, adapting to climate change, and promoting sustainable development in agricultural systems. By investing in irrigation infrastructure and promoting efficient water management practices, countries can enhance their agricultural resilience and support the livelihoods of farmers.

During his presidency, H.E. John Dramani Mahama implemented several strategies to promote irrigation development in Ghana. Some of these strategies included:

Rehabilitation of existing irrigation schemes to improve their efficiency and productivity. This included repairing infrastructure, such as canals and pumps, and providing training to farmers on modern irrigation techniques.

Mahama's government promoted the use of small-scale irrigation technologies, such as drip irrigation and sprinkler systems, to increase water efficiency and crop yields. This was particularly beneficial for smallholder farmers who did not have access to large-scale irrigation facilities.

His government encouraged public-private partnerships in the irrigation sector to attract investment and expertise. By partnering with the private sector, his government accelerated the development of irrigation infrastructure and improved agricultural productivity.

Besides, Mahama's administration promoted climate-smart irrigation practices to help farmers adapt to changing weather patterns and mitigate the impacts of climate change. This included promoting water-saving techniques and sustainable water management practices.

Overall, Mahama's strategy for irrigation development in Ghana focused on improving water availability for agriculture, enhancing productivity, and promoting sustainable irrigation practices. These efforts boosted food security, increased agricultural production, and supported rural development in the country.

The young man from Bole is expected to do even more in this area when voted for in the upcoming presidential election in December this year.