Benajamin Kumi

Masara N'Arziki Farmers Association

The Masara N'Arziki Farmers Association Masara N'Arziki (meaning "Maize for Prosperity") is headquartered in Tamale in the Northern Region of Ghana and cover the entire Northern part of Ghana. Despite increased maize production over the years, Ghana has a maize supply deficit, and makes up for the shortage through imports. But the establishment of MAFA is an indication of Ghana's potential in maize production in Ghana. The cooperative has been founded to support small scale maize farmers do what they are doing much better, and create an increasing income through the use of improved technology that increases productivity of their farms The program package consists of the provision of fertilizers, hybrid seeds, herbicides, insecticides, spaying equipment, innovative farm implements and technical advisory and training services to farmers, all on credit. COMPONENTS Smallholder Farmer Development: good agricultural practices. good land use and management practices. conservation farming practices farmer group cohesion and dynamics. increase in yield. farming as a business to increase profit. access to good and guaranteed markets. Key Benefits to Farmer: availability of quality inputs and timely delivery to the farmer and farm gate. solution of farmer constraints. technical support and business management training for the farmers. community storage facilities. assured market for all the grain produced.