Women farmers in Northern Ghana face significant challenges in accessing land and water resources for dry-season farming. Predominantly rain-fed agriculture confines its growing season, resulting in seasonal food shortages and unstable incomes.
Before the Greater Rural Opportunities for Women (GROW 2) Project, women in the Zieng Community in the Nanton District faced severe challenges cultivating crops during the dry season. Limited irrigation infrastructure, water scarcity, unfavorable traditional land tenure systems for women, gender norms, and socio-cultural restrictions hinder women’s access to land, and low extension service reach further restricts their farming opportunities and economic empowerment.
Now, with support from the Greater Rural Opportunities for Women (GROW 2) Project, a one-acre plot of land was demarcated and fenced for a dry-season garden equipped with a solar-powered irrigation system and a poly-tank for water storage. The once barren patch of land now flourishes with vibrant organic vegetables grown throughout the year.
“Before this project, we struggled to grow crops during the dry months. Now, we have fresh vegetables year-round, and it has truly changed our lives. My children now look healthier and active. My husband recently complained that I now frequently prepare only ‘Ayoyo’ soup (laughs).” Amina shares proudly.
The benefits ripple beyond agriculture. “Our diets have improved, and so has our health. We make profits that support our families. This space brings us together; it’s not just about farming but about building friendships and supporting each other,” says Mma Abibata, another woman involved in the garden.
The village chief praises the project: “This is a blessing for Zieng. It uplifts our women economically and socially.” Likewise, the Magazia of the community underlines the crucial role of women in supporting the household and the community at large, saying, “Empowered women mean a thriving community.”
Mr. Osman, the village agent for Zieng community, shares this enthusiasm: “The women are motivated and committed. The project is not just changing lives; it inspires others to farm.”
From barren ground to abundant vegetable harvest, the Zieng community’s dry-season garden gives women the opportunity to try different varieties of vegetables, to improve their nutritional and economic needs. The women are now interested in cultivating different varieties, such as carrots, cabbage and cucumbers. This will enhance their diets and also provide additional income. This intervention only re-echoed the fact that, when women thrive, communities flourish. This garden is a seed of lasting change.
