A lecturer at the Department of Crop Science here at the University of Cape Coast, Dr Kingsley Taa has urged farmers who want to venture into pineapple farming to seek professional consultations before starting the plantation.
Even though Pineapple production plays a major role in Ghana, primarily via socioeconomic impacts and the export economy, Climate variations have had a considerable impact on its production. Variable temperatures and rainfall patterns are implicated, yet there is limited knowledge of the conditions and consequences of such variations.
Speaking on ATL FM’ Biribi Soronko, Dr Taa said although Pineapple is the third most economically important fruit crop worldwide, farmers must be sensitized on the risk factors associated with its production to increase yield.
“Once you decide to go into pineapple business, there are certain things you have to consider. The first and most important thing is that, do you have the knowhow? Are you knowledgeable in pineapple production? If the answer is YES then one problem is solved but if the answer is NO then what do you do?”
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According to him” Probably you may take some short courses in pineapple production so you become abreast with what goes into pineapple production or you may decide to consult people that can help you in your production or you can hire an agronomist who is a specialist in pineapple production. By doing these things you are also creating business or job for others.”
On his part, Professor Ernest Ekow Abano, Head of Department of Agricultural Engineering stated that waste management is one of the things that needs to be put into consideration when taking up the pineapple business.
He further explained that if pineapple waste is not handled properly it can cause environmental pollution.
“Waste management is very key especially for those of us into pineapple processing. It is very key because dumping your waste any how and at unauthorized places in the environment can lead to air pollution.”
Source: ATLFMNEWSROOM/Rosemond
