Cocao In a bid to harness agricultural security for the country, the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (MALF) will soon receive an Emax machine, which will enable cadmium (metal) testing in soils.
This was confirmed in a media release from the MALF in commemoration of World Soil Day 2024 on Thursday.
The release explained that this development is particularly critical for local cocoa farmers, who have been advocating for support to meet international export standards.
The MALF noted further that this year’s theme, “Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor and Manage” reminds us that “soil is not just the foundation of agriculture but the cornerstone of life itself.”
The ministry said: “Soil is not merely the ground beneath our feet; it is a living, breathing entity that supports biodiversity, nurtures crops and plays an essential role in climate regulation. It is the foundation of our food systems and essential to the prosperity of future generations.”
It also noted that soil health is a shared responsibility that requires partnership across several sectors:
“While the ministry continues to enhance its capabilities, everyone has a role to play in caring for soils.”
“On this World Soil Day, let us renew our commitment to protecting and managing our soils sustainably, ensuring that they continue to provide for all forms of life on our planet,” the ministry said.
