The Ghana Veterinary Medical Association (GVMA) has commended the government’s “Feed Ghana Programme,” describing it as a bold and transformative initiative to strengthen national food security and revitalise the poultry industry.

In a statement issued on October 7, 2025, and signed by its president, Dr. (Vet. Med.) Joseph Kofi Abuh, and secretary, Nana Dr. (Vet. Med.) Samuel Asumah, the GVMA lauded the government’s allocation to the agricultural sector in the 2025 budget and its plan to deploy 5,000 graduates in agriculture and veterinary science.

According to the association, the initiative’s focus on poultry production through the “Nkokɔ Nkitinkiti” scheme aligns with its mission to promote animal health, food safety, and sustainable livestock production.

“The ‘Feed Ghana Programme’ presents a golden opportunity to integrate veterinary science directly at the grassroots level, and our members are ready to contribute decisively, especially to the flagship poultry production initiative by the current administration,” the statement said.

The GVMA outlined several areas where veterinary professionals will play a pivotal role in ensuring the programme’s success, including safeguarding animal health, supporting poultry farmers with vaccination and biosecurity services, and ensuring the safety of livestock products entering the food chain.

It also urged the government to strengthen the veterinary sector through the establishment of a Veterinary Services Authority, improved logistics, regular recruitment of animal health workers, and better conditions of service to retain skilled professionals.

“Veterinarians are the unsung backbone of any successful food security strategy. Protecting livestock from disease and ensuring their health and productivity is what truly secures our nation’s nutrition,” the statement noted.

The Association further called on all stakeholders—farmers, aggregators, and district assemblies—to collaborate closely with veterinary professionals to ensure the sustainable and safe implementation of the programme.