Dr John Kofi Mensah, Managing Director of ADB, who announced the packages, assured that the bank remained the only bank with a full commitment to the growth of the agricultural sector.

He said “To further deepen our commitment to the agricultural sector, the Bank has created a separate Department for Agric Value Chain and will soon employ staff to man our Agric desks at the branches.”

He announced this at the 9th National Farmers’ Cocktail held on Friday evening in Tamale for hardworking farmers and fishers, who have received recognition as award winners in various fields at the national level, to network and share experiences.

The event formed part of activities to mark this year’s National Farmers’ Day celebration slated for Friday, December 07, in Tamale. Dr Kofi Mensah said “ADB will continue to support our farmers and fishers with tailored made products and services, which will make banking easier and better for them.”

The ADB has promised to give the cedi equivalent of US$100,000 to the 2018 National Best Farmer. Dr Kofi Mensah said “Our association and continuous sponsorship of these events over the years is a testament of our commitment to support farmers and an indication of our desire to remain focused on our founding mandate to provide financial intermediation to the agricultural sector.”

He said “Agriculture remains the single largest sector of the economy with the potential to put our economy beyond donor support and I wish to commend the President, the sector Minister and his team for the enthusiasm exhibited in ensuring the success story of the Planting for Food and Jobs programme.”

Dr Nurah Gyeile, Minister of State at the Ministry of Agriculture congratulated farmers saying they were all award winners commending them for their contribution to the development of the country.