Dr Francis Tetteh, President of the Soil Science Society of Ghana (SSSG), has attributed the increase in cocoa production in Ghana over the past six years to the application of cocoa fertilizer by farmers.

Poppy Appeal

National poppy day was launched in Accra yesterday.

The guest of honour, Minister for Water Resources, Work and Housing, Mr Alban Bagbin  emphasised that the national poppy day brings into memory the harrowing experience the gallant men and women from the Gold Coast went through in Burma and East Africa during the first and the second world wars.

The minister said the self-sacrifice, gallantry and patriotism of the war veterans have not been in vain as the country now lives in a relatively free and safe world, dominated by the practice of democracy, free expression and respect for human rights.

“Today’s veterans are veterans who have also put their lives at risks to help bring peace to the world in the theatre of peace keeping”, he stressed.

Mr Bagbin indicated the wearing of the poppy badge is gradually losing its significance in the country unlike in the European world where it takes the centre stage at this time of the year.

The minister disclosed that government has decided to pass the Veteran Association of Ghana (VAG) Bill which had gathered dust since 2001, adding that the Bill is at the consideration stage in parliament and may soon be passed into law to make the administration of VAG the responsibility of the state.

He advised Ghanaians and corporate entities to support the purchase of poppy badges to raise funds for veterans.

Donations were made by several corporate bodies to help commemorate the day.

In attendance were the Minister for Defence, Lt Gen Joseph Henry Smith and the Chief of Defence Staff Lt Gen Peter Augustine Blay.

Source: ISD (Abigail Addo & Loretta Naa Dei Ashie)