Mahama launches Feed Ghana Programme to boost national food productivity

President John Dramani Mahama launched the Feed Ghana Programme over the weekend. This initiative aims to boost food productivity in the country.

The programme encourages modern farming techniques and improved infrastructure. It also plans to establish agro-industrial zones across Ghana.

During the launch in Techiman, President Mahama emphasized agriculture's role in economic transformation. He called for a shift from traditional farming methods.

He noted that Ghana's annual food import bill is $2 billion, which is concerning. Agro-industries are operating below capacity, despite inflation dropping from 54 percent in 2022 to over 22 percent now.

Mahama stressed the need for renewed focus on food self-sufficiency and agricultural transformation. He highlighted ongoing challenges like low productivity and inadequate extension services.

Despite these issues, he pointed out Ghana’s fertile land and abundant water resources as assets. The country also has strong research institutions and technical expertise available.

The President believes harnessing these resources can lead to sustainable progress. This includes providing food security, supporting industries, creating jobs, and improving incomes.

He outlined his vision to modernize agriculture to create jobs and reduce food inflation. The Feed Ghana Programme will serve as an umbrella for all agricultural projects.

Mahama emphasized prioritizing key commodities for food security and industrial growth. These include grains like maize, rice, soybeans, and sorghum.

Vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers will receive special attention too. Starchy crops like cassava, plantain, and yam are also priorities.

Additionally, industrial crops including cocoa, mangoes, oil palm, coconut, rubber, cotton, cashew nuts, shea nuts, coffee, and ginger will be focused on.

In livestock farming, there will be more emphasis on poultry as well as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs.