Watch Rawlings’ heartwarmin speech that gave Afram Plains hope

There are places in Ghana whose lands, minerals, and natural resources tell deep and powerful stories—and the Afram Plains is one of them.

Located in the Eastern Region, the Afram Plains is often known for its vast farmlands and agricultural potential. But beyond farming, this area carries a deeper meaning in Ghana’s national history and identity.

To the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, the Afram Plains stood for much more than just fertile land. To him, it symbolised Ghana’s strength, natural beauty, and peaceful spirit. It was not just a place on the map—it was a national treasure filled with potential and hope.

Rawlings believed that the Afram Plains held a special kind of promise. At a time when Ghana was struggling with modernising agriculture and finding better ways to manage land, Rawlings’ vision for the Afram Plains served as both a warning and an inspiration.

Back in his early military days, Flt. Lt. Rawlings spoke passionately about the Afram Plains. He encouraged Ghanaians to see the development of the area not just as a farming project, but as a serious national duty.

“Give us something in a few years’ time, so you know what the Afram Plains are. Let it be a testimony, a reflection of a new kind of people, people who moved into a new land, explored it, and built it,” he said.

This message was not only about planting crops. It was a heartfelt call to build a meaningful future, to turn a land full of promise into a legacy for generations.

Rawlings often reminded Ghanaians that he had hands-on experience with the land. He worked on it himself and knew the challenges. He had driven tractors, used ploughs, and understood the tough nature of the terrain.

“Menuanom… for those of you who are going to be working on the grounds and ploughing the fields, please watch out. I know the Afram Plains well. I’ve done tractor work before, used ploughs, and I know how easily chains snap when you hit stumps,” he added.

With that experience, he gave advice directly to those who would be working the land.

“So, please, for those who are supposed to be doing the land clearing… take it seriously,” he said.

Today, as Ghana continues to push for agricultural development and better land use, Rawlings’ words still ring true. The Afram Plains is not just a place to grow food—it is a symbol of what Ghana can achieve when its people are committed, hardworking, and visionary.