HOME GARDENING: THE SURVIVING FOOD SECURITY STRATEGY IN THE NANDOM TRADITIONAL AREA - UPPER WEST REGION GHANA

Abstract

The shorter rainy seasons and increasing dry spells reflect the effects of climate change in the Nandom Traditional Area with attendance up surge of food insecurity. Indigenes use traditional farming methods to cater this and the philosophy underpinning the siting, ownership and control of home gardens; the sustainability and contributions of home garden to food security is not ascertained. Five electoral areas were randomly sampled. Data was collected using interviews, observation and focus group discussion guides. Home garden site is determined by at least 12 months of traditional soil assessment. Home gardening is an organic farming practice in the incidence of high technology. It enhances: food security, viable seeds for cultivation and intercropping. The existence of home gardening is influence by the mode of housing. Agricultural extension officers need to support farmers on the production of compost; food storage, seed selection and crop compatibility in intercropping.