Mahama outlines key interventions under ‘Feed Ghana’ to transform Agriculture

President John Dramani Mahama has launched the ‘Feed Ghana Programme.’ This initiative aims to modernize agriculture, boost food security, and support economic transformation in Ghana.

Mr. Mahama spoke at the programme's official launch in Techiman on April 12. He described it as part of his Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda (AETA). The goal is to create jobs, reduce food inflation, and improve livelihoods through sustainable practices.

He announced four key interventions under this programme:

1. Promotion of Smart Agriculture: The government will set up Farmer Service Centers nationwide. These centers will offer mechanization services, quality inputs, financing, market access, processing, and training for farmers. Additionally, "farm banks" or land banks will be created in irrigable zones to support young agricultural entrepreneurs.

2. Grains and Legumes Development Project: This intervention focuses on increasing production of maize, rice, soybean, and sorghum. These crops will be grown for local consumption and export. Special attention will be given to sorghum due to its use in brewing. The project will also support the feed industry for poultry and livestock.

3. Vegetable Development Project – ‘Yiridya’: To cut vegetable imports from neighboring countries, the programme promotes controlled environment farming with greenhouses. It encourages urban agriculture as well. Schools and households are urged to grow vegetables like tomatoes and onions in gardens.

4. Institutional Farming: This component targets schools with available land for crop and livestock farming. It aims to improve meal quality for students while reducing costs. Institutions will raise livestock such as goats and sheep to supplement the School Feeding Programme.

Mahama emphasized that these interventions will revitalize agriculture in Ghana. They aim to enhance self-reliance and position Ghana as a key player in regional food markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area.