Kuoro Manoh Babon-mira IV, the Divisional Chief of Billaw in the Lambussie District, has issued a strong call to Ghana's youth. He urges them to abandon the idea that farming is a form of punishment. Instead, he believes it is a vital and profitable business. This perspective, he explained, can help improve their lives. If farming were a product to buy, its value would be immense. The chief's message was delivered during the 2026 Parahpero Gbero Festival. The festival celebrated the start of the new farming season. It also serves to unite the community for development.
This initiative to change perceptions is crucial for Ghana's economy. Farming is a cornerstone of the nation's economic activity. Many young people wrongly associate it with a lack of education. Kuoro Babon-mira believes this outdated view contributes to unemployment. He pointed out that changing this mindset could reduce joblessness. The chief also expressed worry about declining traditional values. These values, he stated, push young people away from rural areas. This migration often leads them to seek less dignified work in the south. He emphasised that northern Ghana needs to reclaim its lost values.
The festival's theme, "Leveraging Climate Resilience Practices for Food Security," highlights current challenges. Mr. Nathaniel Nambie Zim-meeweh, the Lambussie District Director of Agriculture, noted its timeliness. Climate change significantly impacts farming operations. He urged the community to protect the environment. This includes setting aside areas for trees and collaborating with local authorities to stop deforestation. Professor Titus Kofi Beyuo, the Member of Parliament for the area, also spoke. He called for unity and peace within the district. He stressed that development in Lambussie requires collective effort. He wants people to set aside tribal differences and work together.
The event featured vibrant cultural displays. These included traditional dances and songs. There were also exhibitions showcasing local farming methods and cultural heritage. The Parahpero Gbero Festival itself has deep roots. It originates from an ancestral practice where the "Parahpero" announcement marked the beginning of the farming season. The celebration today honors this tradition while focusing on modern needs and development.
This call for a renewed focus on agriculture comes at a time when Ghana seeks to diversify its economy. While the country has seen growth in other sectors, agriculture remains a major employer. Especially in northern regions, where alternative job opportunities may be scarce. The chief’s message aims to reposition farming as a modern, technologically driven, and financially rewarding career. By doing so, he hopes to encourage more youth to engage in and innovate within the agricultural sector. This could lead to greater food security and economic prosperity for the region.