Africa-Press – Ghana. A Waste Energy Expert, Elikplim Asileve says the continuous use of chemical fertilizer by farmers for crop production is causing considerable damage to the soil quality.
He has therefore encouraged farmers to shift from chemical fertilizers to organic alternatives.
According to him, when sustainable agriculture is the global target, the troublesome effects of chemical fertilizers cannot be ignored.
“The ongoing use of chemical fertilizers has been identified as the main cause for the depletion of soil organic matter (SOM) and the deterioration of agricultural soil quality.
Excessive reliance on chemical fertilizers results in soil compaction, decreased fertility, and pollution of air, water, and soil.
Furthermore, it leads to a reduction in essential nutrients and minerals in the soil, posing environmental risks. Moreover, exclusive dependence on chemical fertilizers also hampers microbial activity within crop systems”.
He observed this year’s Farmer’s Day celebration held in the Ashaiman Municipality in Accra on Friday which saw Sallam Yakubu emerge as the overall best farmer.
The event was attended by very high-profile personalities including, the Municipal Chief Executive for Ashaiman Municipality, Albert Boakye Okyere, Veterinary Officers, Agro processors and Agriculture entrepreneurs.
Elikplim Asileve expressed the view that, the continuous application of chemical fertilizers can lead to various negative effects on the soil. These include altering the soil’s pH, increasing pest, and causing acidification and soil crust formation.
“As a consequence, there is a decrease in organic matter and humus load, as well as a decline in beneficial organisms.
Ultimately, this can hinder plant growth and even contribute to the emission of greenhouse gases hence exacerbating the global issue of climate crisis”.
Mr. Elikplim Asileve who is also the Managing Director for Safisana Ghana Limited, a waste-to-resource social enterprise that is dedicated to transforming waste into valuable resources further noted the benefits of Asase Gyefo
Premium Organic Fertilizer are numerous as it enriches the soil, improving its structure and fertility, leading to healthier plants and higher crop yields.
“By using organic fertilizer, farmers can reduce their reliance on harmful
chemicals, protect the environment, and produce healthier, more nutritious crops”. He stressed.
On his part the Municipal Chief Executive for Ashaiman, Albert Boakye Okyere said the government’s flagship programme phase 2 of planting for food and jobs is yielding greater results.
Accoding to him to ensure food security in the country government will provide all the incentives needed for the transformation of agriculture in the country.
He further welcomed the idea of using organic fertilizer produced by Safisana for crop yield.
Other award winners for the day include;
David Teye Dugbartey- 1st Runner – up
Matthew Abuska- best crop farmer
Adiza Jibril – Best Livestock farmer
Oppong Kwame Danquah- Best youth farmer
Maxwell Agyei Bonsu – Best backyard farmer
They were dully awarded.
The company also donated 100 bags of Asase Gyefo Premium Organic Fertilizer towards this year’s Farmers Day celebration.
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