Dr Akoto Afriyie
Interplast Ghana Limited, a leading manufacturer of plastic pipes, has introduced a drip irrigation technology believed to be the first of its kind in Ghana and West Africa.
The new technology forms part of Interplast’s plans to create and expand its production line to meet the strategic plans of the Akufo-Addo-led New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration to develop the country’s agricultural sector through policies such as ‘Planting for Food and Jobs’ and ‘One Village, One Dam.’
It is envisaged that the drip irrigation technology, which was launched on Wednesday, August 1, 2018, in Accra, would contribute to value addition, development and increase in market linkage and support Ghanaian farmers.
Speaking at the launch, Managing Director of Interplast Ghana Limited, Hayssam Fakhry, said the drip irrigation system would apply irrigation water to the roots of the plants by the use of drippers using low volumes of water.
He explained that “drip systems also ensure very little water is lost through evaporation, and their low flow allows large areas to be watered from the available water supply.”
After installing the system properly, he stated that the “pressurized water is released into the system. Once water reaches the drippers, after passing through the different irrigation system components, drippers start to emit water drop by drop.”
“This water penetrates the surface of the soil slowly and reaches the root zone of the plant. Drip irrigation technologies vary a lot; they can be very simple where farmers connect the irrigation network to water.”
The MD noted that Interplast provides not only irrigation materials, but also solutions for irrigation systems for small, medium and large farms with drip or sprinkler systems in addition to a wide range of complimentary products.
Mr. Fakhry reiterated the commitment of Interplast to the development of Ghana.
According to him, “We are firm believers that this region is destined to excel in agriculture. We have also seen rapid evolution of the agricultural sector here in Ghana over the last few years.”
He added that “this development has always been supported by the government’s strategic plan to develop agriculture. And what other better way to express our agreement and contribution to this timely and noble plan than to use our strength and resources to develop what would help the nation achieve this goal.”
Minister of State for Food and Agriculture, Dr Gyiele Nurah, commended management of Interplast Ghana Limited, saying that the drip technology fits into government’s agricultural plans to boost the production of food.
Business Development Minister, Mohammed Awal, stressed the need to modernize Ghana’s agricultural sector, pledging government’s support for Interplast to improve its operations.
Interplast, which was established in 1970, is a fully-owned Ghanaian company that actively exports to more than 20 African countries.
It is believed to be one of the largest manufacturing companies in Ghana and continues to expand its production facilities and product portfolio.
By Melvin Tarlue