Agric minister projects steep decline in food prices

The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has projected that food prices in Ghana could drop by over 50% in the coming months, thanks to the government’s efforts to enhance food production and support farmers impacted by recent drought conditions.

Speaking on PM Express Business Edition, Dr. Acheampong expressed optimism about the future of food security in the country. He emphasized that the government’s initiatives are already yielding positive results, with some food prices beginning to decline since March and April of this year.

“We are confident that food prices will continue to decrease up to April next year, and this is based on verifiable data from the Ministry of Agriculture,” Dr. Acheampong stated. He also highlighted that these projections stem from the measures being implemented to stabilize the agricultural sector.

Government support to farmers

In response to the challenges posed by the recent dry spell, Dr. Acheampong outlined several key interventions by the government. Among these is the provision of 200,000 metric tonnes of fertilizer to farmers across the country. Additionally, the government plans to inject $80 million worth of agricultural inputs into the market, which is expected to further stabilize prices and keep them low.

Dr. Acheampong assured farmers that those affected by the drought will receive targeted relief. He emphasized that the Ministry of Agriculture has been actively supporting farmers through various initiatives, with clear data on beneficiaries available for public verification.

Interest-free loans for farmers

One of the government’s major initiatives includes providing interest-free loans to commercial farmers affected by the dry spell. Dr. Acheampong revealed that the government has earmarked GH₵50 million to cover interest costs on these loans, which will be administered through ADB. He clarified that these loans are not handouts but are designed to provide crucial financial support to farmers as they recover from the drought’s impact.

Despite concerns about food security, Dr. Acheampong rejected claims of a bleak outlook, maintaining that the future of Ghana’s food supply is promising. He noted that the Ministry of Agriculture has already secured GH₵3.6 billion in funding, with plans to reach a target of GH₵8 billion to continue boosting agricultural production.

Dr. Acheampong’s assurances and the government’s initiatives are expected to bring much-needed relief to farmers and consumers, as the country works toward stabilizing its food supply and ensuring affordability for all.

‘Make agriculture attractive to the youth’

Mr Peter Ntasah, President, Akyode National Youth has called on the government to make agriculture attractive to the youth by providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge. 

He said most of the young people viewed agriculture unattractive due to its association with hard labour, poor remuneration, limited career progression opportunities and many other factors. 

Mr. Ntasah made the appeal during the 22nd annual youth conference held at Abrewankor, a suburb of the Nkwanta South Municipality in the Oti Region.

He emphasised the importance of empowering the youth in the areas of vocational training, technology innovation, financial access and market opportunities, which were crucial to change the perception of the sector among the youth.

Mr Ntasah said that if the government focused more on agriculture, it would help provide employment opportunities for more young people to contribute significantly to the economic growth of the country. 

He also highlighted some key challenges confronting the youth, especially in the area of health, education, employment, road and access to communication network.

Nana Enyineh Gyadu Nkansa III, the Ankobeahene of Larteh Akuapem, who chaired the occasion, urged the youth to focus on their careers to bring positive change in their respective communities. 

Nana Gyadu Nkansa, also the Director of Taysec Construction Limited emphasised the need for the youth to be involved in government policies and contribute to national development. 

He also urged them to embrace peace and unity to foster development in their areas.

The conference featured keynote addresses from esteemed guests, including traditional leaders, government officials and youth advocates.

The conference was celebrated on the theme: “uniting for peace and sustainable development, the role of the Akyode youth.”