Ghana’s government is taking steps to boost local agriculture and support farmers. President John Mahama has directed schools to prioritize buying rice, maize, chicken, and eggs from local producers, aiming to reduce reliance on imports and promote food security.
This initiative is part of the Feed Ghana Programme, launched earlier this year, which focuses on backyard and community gardens, institutional farming, and poultry revitalization. The program targets institutions, especially Senior High Schools, to venture into commercial farming and promote agricultural productivity.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson emphasized the importance of supporting local farmers, stating that the government will ensure strict compliance with the local sourcing policy. The National Food Buffer Stock Company will play a crucial role in facilitating bulk procurement and distribution of locally produced goods.
To address concerns about implementation, President Mahama announced an additional GH¢200 million support for maize and rice farmers, aiming to stabilize prices and ensure food security. This move is expected to benefit over one million farmers and promote agricultural growth.
Experts suggest that while directives are a good start, sustained investment in agricultural infrastructure and policy support are necessary to achieve long-term food security and promote local agri-business.