The Ghana National Association of Farmers and Fishermen (GNAFF) has strongly condemned comments made by the General Secretary of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), Dr David Tenkorang Twum, describing them as derogatory and disrespectful towards farmers.

In a statement issued on Friday, GNAFF said it had taken serious notice of remarks made by Dr Tenkorang Twum during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen political programme, where he allegedly launched an “unprovoked verbal attack” on farmers in addition to making unprintable comments about the Minister of Health, Hon. Kwaku Agyemang-Manu.

The Association, regarded as the umbrella body of farmers and fishermen across the country, said it was “deeply shocked and dismayed” that such comments could be made by a leader of a professional organisation who, in its view, ought to conduct himself with decorum and respect.

“Farmers and fishermen have long been the backbone of Ghana’s economy, contributing immensely to the nation’s growth, food security and economic survival. It is therefore highly disheartening, discourteous and unacceptable for such a venerable group to be subjected to public ridicule in this manner,” the statement said.

GNAFF has given Dr Tenkorang Twum 24 hours to retract his comments and render an unqualified apology to farmers and fishermen across Ghana. The Association warned that failure to do so would compel it to take the necessary steps to defend the dignity and integrity of its members.

The statement, signed by GNAFF President Michael Tetteh Kwetey and General Secretary Dr Abutu Kapori, also urged the public to continue respecting the sacrifices and contributions of farmers and fishermen, describing them as the “lifeline of national development.”