The Divisional Chief of Billaw in the Lambussie District, Kuoro Manoh Babon-mira IV, has called on Ghanaian youth to abandon the perception that farming is a form of punishment, describing agriculture as a profitable and essential pathway to improved livelihoods.
According to the chief, farming remains one of the most important sectors of Ghana’s economy and should not be viewed as an occupation reserved for the uneducated.
“If farming were sold in the market, it would be considered an essential commodity,” he stated, while encouraging young people to venture into agriculture to secure a dignified and fulfilling future.
Kuoro Babon-mira made the remarks during the 2026 Parahpero Gbero Festival held at Billaw under the theme: “Leveraging Climate Resilience Practices for Food Security.”
The Parahpero Gbero Festival was introduced by the community based on a long-standing tradition by their forefathers, who annually made the “Parahpero” announcement — a Sissali expression meaning “farming has started” — to officially usher in the farming season.
The celebration is aimed at uniting the people of Billaw for community development while marking the beginning of the agricultural season.
The chief noted that changing societal attitudes toward farming and recognising it as a viable business venture could significantly help reduce unemployment in the country.
He also expressed concern over what he described as the erosion of traditional values in northern Ghana, which he said had contributed to increasing rural-urban migration among the youth.
“Northerns have lost their values, and we must look back to correct our neglects and mistakes. We are far behind in everything, and this is why many of our younger ones are forced to go to the south to seek slavery rather than greener pastures,” he said.
Kuoro Babon-mira further appealed to chiefs and elders to educate young people on the importance of preserving traditional practices and embracing farming as an economic activity capable of supporting families and communities.
The Lambussie District Director of Agriculture, Nathaniel Nambie Zim-meeweh, described the festival theme as timely in light of the growing impact of climate change on agriculture.
He urged residents to protect the environment by establishing woodlots and collaborating with the District Assembly to combat deforestation.
Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for the area, Titus Kofi Beyuo, called on residents to coexist peacefully and maintain unity for the development of the district.
He stressed that the future progress of the Lambussie District depended on collective responsibility and urged residents to put aside tribal differences and work together as one people.
The festival featured cultural performances from various communities, including traditional dances by the Billaw Gbiello Group, musical performances and exhibitions showcasing local farming practices and cultural heritage.
