Agric Minister launches Feed Ghana Program to boost Food Security

The Ghanaian government has launched the “Feed Ghana Programme (FGP).” This initiative aims to revitalize agriculture, improve food security, and reduce food imports.

Eric Opoku, the Minister for Food and Agriculture, announced the program on April 3, 2025. He held a press briefing at the Ministry’s conference room.

“The launch of the Feed Ghana Programme is a pivotal moment,” said Opoku. He emphasized that food security and economic stability depend on a strong agricultural system.

President John Dramani Mahama will officially launch the program on April 11, 2025. The event will take place in Techiman, Bono East Region.

Ghana faces significant agricultural challenges that threaten food security. The country spends over $2 billion annually on food imports. Poultry alone accounts for $300 million of this amount.

This reliance on imports makes Ghana vulnerable to price fluctuations and inflation. Local farmers struggle with inefficiencies and limited access to modern tools. Weak infrastructure also hampers their efforts.

Smallholder farmers face many hurdles, including lack of mechanization and financing difficulties. Post-harvest losses occur due to inadequate storage and transportation facilities.

In response to these challenges, the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) introduced the Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA). The Feed Ghana Programme will be central to this initiative.

It aims to address critical gaps in agriculture while boosting agribusiness development. Key initiatives under the Feed Ghana Programme include:

**Advancement of SMART Agriculture**

- Launch Farmers’ Service Centres nationwide for essential support services.
- Establish Farm Banks in agricultural zones for land access and irrigation services.

**Grains and Legumes Development Initiative**

- Promote vital grains like maize, rice, sorghum, and soybeans.
- Enhance access to high-quality inputs such as seeds and fertilizers.

**Vegetable Development Project (YƐREDUA)**

- Implement controlled environment farming through greenhouses.
- Create sustainable spaces equipped with irrigation systems for cultivation.
- Offer technical assistance to urban vegetable farmers.

MoFA will coordinate with other ministries, agencies, and private sectors for success. A National Oversight Committee will provide strategic direction while a Technical Implementation Committee oversees execution.

“The government is committed to supporting this initiative,” noted Opoku. He stressed that active participation from all stakeholders is crucial.

As part of the rollout, MoFA will engage key stakeholders and develop detailed guidelines. They aim to set up implementation structures nationwide.

“We can achieve self-sufficiency in food production,” he stated. Now is the time to invest in our farmers and build a resilient food system for all Ghanaians.