The rainfall, which lasted for about three hours has brought high hope to the residents, particularly farmers, who are expecting a boost in their produces with the rain expected to help improve the growth of crops such as onions, pepper, garden eggs, and okro, among others.
Mr Raymond Gomado, a fisherman at Vui, told the Ghana News Agency, that the Keta Lagoon and the sea, which were vital source of livelihood for many residents, were also expected to benefit from the rainfall.
“When it rains, replenishment of aquatic animals is likely to increase with catches, which could enhance productivity and boost the local economy,” he said.
He explained that the lagoon was an important breeding ground for fish and other aquatic species, and its conservation was crucial for the sustainability of the local fishing industry, which were a vital ecosystem that supported various plant and animal species, and the rainfall would boost its sustainability.
He expressed optimism that the rainfall would mark the beginning of a productive year, with improved agricultural yields and increased economic activity as well as to improve the overall well-being of the communities.
“I know all farmers and fishermen will be happy about the rain considering how long we have waited for it. The late rain forced many farmers to engage in irrigation farming, which is very expensive.”
Mr Rafael Abu, a vegetable farmer also expressed excitement about the rain that covered the entire Municipality, which would also enable harvesting of crops such as cassava, yam and cocoyam easily to boost the local economy, improved agricultural productivity and food security.
He said the rainfall has brought renewed hope to fisherfolks and farmers in and around Keta Municipality with many looking forward to a productive year.
The residents in the Keta Municipality believed that Ghana’s economy was heavily reliant on rainfed agriculture, with over 80 per cent of agricultural production dependent on rainfall and described the rain as a welcome relief, especially considering the country’s vulnerability to climate change.
They expect Ghana Meteorological Agency to monitor the rainfall patterns in the municipality and provide valuable data for planning and resource management as well as rainfall analysis bulletin to enable insights into precipitation trends to help farmers and policymakers make informed decisions.
Others believed that the area’s rainfall patterns were influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the prevailing wind patterns while the rain in Keta was seen as a testament to their potential for agricultural production, and with continued efforts to promote sustainable agriculture, the municipality could achieve its full potential with the needed and responsible water management and conservation.
GNA
