Farmers Day in Ghana
Farmers Day is a statutory public holiday in Ghana, observed on the first Friday of December. It recognizes farmers and fishers and has grown into a national occasion for agricultural awards, exhibitions and public recognition of their work.[1][2]
A Ghanaian day of recognition
Ghana’s National Farmers’ Day was instituted in 1985 to honour farmers, fishermen and herdsmen. A statement published by Parliament describes the first celebration, held at Osino in the Eastern Region, and links the recognition to farmers’ contribution during a period of national food shortages.[2]
The day also highlights agriculture’s place in Ghana’s food security and economy. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture says the annual celebration recognizes farmers, fishers and others in the agricultural sector for their contributions to food security and national development.[3]
Date and public holiday status
Farmers Day falls on the first Friday of December. Ghana’s public holiday calendar lists it as a statutory holiday, and the Public Holidays Act schedule specifies the first Friday in December.[1]
The holiday is observed throughout Ghana. In 2020, the Ministry of the Interior announced that an executive instrument moved the public holiday from Farmers Day to the following Monday because of the general election.[4]
Awards, fairs and regional events
National Farmers’ Day celebrations include awards recognizing achievement across farming and fishing. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s account of the celebration describes a national agricultural fair and an awards ceremony, alongside regional and district recognition for farmers.[3]
The format and location of events can vary. The Ministry’s account describes regional celebrations across the country, while the national programme has included a fair and awards ceremony. The events recognize farmers and fishers and provide a forum to showcase agricultural work and innovation.[3]
What to expect as a resident or visitor
Because the day is a statutory public holiday, check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go. Check opening hours for banks, shops and markets, and transport arrangements with the relevant office or business before travelling.[1]
The available official sources describe public ceremonies and agricultural exhibitions, but do not establish one nationwide food custom or a single pattern of observance in every community. Events and local arrangements may differ by place.[3]
Farmers Day: frequently asked questions
When is Farmers Day in Ghana?
It is observed on the first Friday of December.[1]
Is Farmers Day a public holiday?
Is there always a substitute day if it falls on a weekend?
The Ministry of the Interior documented a special substitution by executive instrument for an election day in 2020.[4]
What is open on Farmers Day?
Check opening hours with government offices and banks before you go. Banks, shops and transport operators set their own hours, so check with them before travelling.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Farmers Day in Ghana:
- Official Public Holidays- Ghana Revenue Authority
- Ghana’s National Farmers’ Day- Parliament of Ghana
- 39TH National Farmers' Day – 2023 in Perspective.- Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Republic of Ghana
- Declaration of Monday, 7th December, 2020 as Public Holiday by Substitution of the 4th December, 2020 Holiday (Farmers’ Day)- Ministry of the Interior, Republic of Ghana