Charles Gyato Honored as 2025 Second Runner-Up National Best Farmer with Support from Stanbic Bank

Charles Gyato, a seasoned farmer from Banda in the Oti Region, has been named the Second Runner-Up in the 2025 National Best Farmer Awards held in Ho in the Volta Region. As part of his prize package, he received a Massey Ferguson 385 tractor sponsored by Stanbic Bank Ghana.

Mr. Gyato, who has been farming for 40 years, manages one of the most extensive mixed-crop and livestock operations in the region. His farm includes 200 acres of maize, 300 acres of rice, 50 acres of soybean, 20 acres of palm trees, 8 acres of teak, 50 acres of yam, 50 acres of mango and several other crop varieties. He also oversees a large livestock population consisting of 560 cattle, 300 goats, 150 sheep, 240 pigs and 350 bee colonies. In addition, he has 300 acres of uncultivated land earmarked for future expansion.

Speaking after receiving the award, Mr. Gyato expressed appreciation to Stanbic Bank for supporting the award category. “I feel honored and grateful for this recognition,” he said.

He further commended Stanbic Bank for their commitment to the Agri-sector in the country over the years. “Stanbic Bank has shown great commitment by providing this tractor. It will help me improve productivity and expand my operations. As the President has said, everyone can participate in agriculture. People can invest, start backyard farms and support themselves. I encourage the youth to take agriculture seriously because there is dignity and opportunity in farming,” he noted.

Stanbic Bank Ghana, a long-standing partner in agricultural development, reiterated its commitment to supporting the sector. Mr. Samuel Okang-Boye, Head of Agribusiness at Stanbic Bank, said the bank was pleased to contribute to this year’s celebration. “We are proud to support the National Farmers’ Day initiative and to recognize farmers whose work drives national development,” he stated.

The 2025 National Farmers’ Day celebration brought together industry stakeholders, policymakers and agricultural workers to acknowledge the contributions of farmers across the country. This year’s event highlighted the increasing need for investment in mechanization, innovation and youth participation in agriculture.

Mr. Gyato’s recognition as Second Runner-Up reflects his long-term dedication to farming and his significant role in food production. The support received from Stanbic Bank is expected to boost his capacity as he prepares to expand his operations in the Oti Region.