Agric Minister launches Feed Ghana Program to boost Food Security

The Ghanaian government has launched the “Feed Ghana Programme (FGP).” This initiative aims to improve agriculture, enhance 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 Feed Ghana Programme is crucial for transforming our agricultural sector,” 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 training and market access.
- Establish Farm Banks in agricultural zones for land access and irrigation services.

Grains and Legumes Development Initiative:
- Promote grains like maize, rice, sorghum, and soybeans.
- Enhance access to quality seeds, fertilizers, agrochemicals, storage, and processing facilities.

Vegetable Development Project (YƐREDUA):
- Implement controlled environment farming through greenhouses.
- Create sustainable spaces with irrigation systems for vegetable cultivation.
- Offer technical assistance to urban vegetable farmers and promote community gardening programs.

MoFA will collaborate with other ministries, agencies, and the private sector 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,” said Opoku. He stressed the need for active participation from all stakeholders including farmers and agribusinesses.

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 that benefits all Ghanaians.”