The training, which brought together over 50 farmers, aimed at equipping participants with innovative and effective methods of controlling weeds to improve rice yields and promote sustainable agribusiness. 

Professor Maxwell Darko Asante, Director of CSIR-CRI, underscored the importance of weed management in rice production, stating that the training was essential in exposing farmers to new and improved techniques of weed control. 

He explained that poor weed management significantly reduced crop yields and created conditions that attracted harmful insects, which further destroyed crops and undermined farmers’ efforts. 

“Weeds, when not properly managed, compete with crops for nutrients, water, and sunlight, thereby affecting yields and inviting pests that can devastate farms,” he said. 

Professor Asante revealed that experts had been deployed to assess the situation at the Dawhenya Irrigation Scheme, where they identified five major weed species posing challenges to rice farmers. 

He noted that adopting appropriate and targeted control measures against these weeds would go a long way to improving productivity and boosting farmers’ incomes. 

Dr Kim Young Jin, Country Representative of KOPIA, highlighted the significance of effective weed control in modern rice farming and agribusiness. 

Dr Jin stated that efficient weed management was a critical component of achieving high yields and ensuring food security in developing economies. 

He reaffirmed the Republic of Korea’s commitment to supporting Ghana and other countries in improving rice production through knowledge transfer, technical support, and innovation. 

“The Republic of Korea remains ready to collaborate with Ghana to strengthen rice farming and contribute to global food sufficiency,” he assured. 

Participants were taken through practical demonstrations and interactive sessions designed to enhance their understanding of weed identification and control strategies. 

The workshop forms part of ongoing efforts by KOPIA and CSIR-CRI to build the capacity of local farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the country.