The Government has commenced processes to roll out the flagship Feed Ghana Programme to reduce food imports, create jobs and boost food security.

President John Dramani Mahama will launch the Programme in Techiman in the Bono East Region on April 11, 2025, to kick-start the official implementation of the nationwide initiative.

Addressing a press conference in Accra on Thursday, Mr Eric Opoku, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, rallied individuals, churches, schools, Assemblies and institutional bodies to join the programme to reduce the over $2 billion spent to import food into the country annually.

He said the Government would soon establish Farm Service Centres in all districts to enable farmers, individuals, and interested institutions to access essential farm inputs such as fertilisers, improved seeds, and extension services.

Mr Opoku said the nationwide campaign would stimulate national interest in food production to feed the nation, export, and utilise agriculture as a conduit to reset the economy.

“This is a nationwide exercise and we want everyone to be involved, ” he said.

The Feed Ghana Programme, a key manifesto promise of the National Democratic Congress, seeks to support farmers with strategic investment, modernise agricultural machinery and equipment to improve food security, boost food production and create jobs.

The key initiatives outlined under the Project include the establishment of Farmers’ Service Centres, and Farm Banks within agricultural zones to facilitate land access and irrigation services; Grains and Legumes Development Initiative; Vegetable Development Project; and ‘Poultry Farm to Table’ Project to increase poultry production.

Other initiatives are Livestock Development Programme, Oil Palm Industry Development, and the creation of agro-production enclaves equipped with essential infrastructure, including irrigation systems, access roads, and warehousing facilities, to boost agricultural productivity and enhance market access.

Mr Opoku said the Ministry would establish a National Oversight Committee to provide strategic direction and a Technical Implementation Committee to offer essential technical support for the successful implementation of the Programme.

He said the initiative would reduce cost of living and generate revenue to help government transform the agricultural sector.

Mr Opoku urged all stakeholders to actively engage the Feed Ghana Programme and use the initiative as an engine for economic transformation.

“I urge all Ghanaians to join hands in supporting this initiative, as we work collectively towards a prosperous and food-secure Ghana,” he said.

Source : GNA