Is Ghana’s Livestock Sector, Receiving Equal Attention as the Crops Sector?

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Three weeks ago, Agrihouse Foundation launched its third edition of the Ghana chicken festival (National Poultry Day). Since then, there has been an ongoing discussions, deliberations and debate about the disparities in attention and investment between these sectors.

Livestock industry experts and stakeholders are advocating for a more balanced approach, recognizing the importance of livestock production in meeting the demands of a growing population.

Agrihouse Foundation, highlights the need to give the necessary attention and improvement to the livestock sector, as the crop sector has traditionally received greater emphasis.

While crop production is crucial for staple foods and raw materials, the livestock sector ensures a consistent supply of high-quality protein, supports rural economies, and contributes to socio-economic development globally.

Thus, increased attention to the livestock sector is necessary.

However, the livestock sector has received limited research funding, technology development, and infrastructure investments compared to crop production.

Government policies and regulations have primarily focused on crop-related issues, neglecting the specific needs of the livestock sector.

Despite recent progress in recognizing sustainable livestock production, animal welfare, and disease control, the sector still requires more attention.

Through our numerous initiatives such as the Ghana chicken festival (National Poultry Day), The Livestock, Poultry and Fisheries Training and Tradeshow (LiPF), and the Monthly Beginner Executive Masterclass, among others, Agrihouse Foundation hopes to advocate and  contribute,  for the provision of  the needed attention and improvement to the livestock sector.

Furthermore, the environmental impact of the livestock sector, such as greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, and land degradation, needs to be addressed. While efforts have primarily targeted the crop sector, sustainable livestock production systems have not received adequate attention. Technological advancements in agriculture have also prioritized crop improvement, overshadowing livestock-related innovations.

During the week, Agrihouse Foundation set out to sample views from some Agribusiness Industry players,  on their thoughts on the subject – “If the Livestock Sector is receiving equal attention, as the Crops sector”. This is what some had to say:

• Shiehk Amartey Issah, Secretary of the Livestock Breeders and Traders Association, emphasizes, that Despite the vital role of the livestock sector in meeting global food demands, it is evident that the crop sector has received more attention in terms of investment, policy, and technological advancements.

There is a need for the government to provide equitable attention and resources to both the livestock and crop sectors.”

• Alfred Appiah, Secretary of the National Farmers and Fishermen Awards Winners Association of Ghana, adds his voice to the growing concern, stating that as the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, achieving a balanced and integrated approach that acknowledges the importance of both livestock and crop sectors will be essential. By addressing the specific challenges and opportunities of each sector, a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system can be realized, meeting the needs of both present and future generations.”

In a series of interviews with livestock farmers in the Oti Region, Northern, and Greater Accra regions, urgent concerns were raised regarding the soaring prices of livestock feed, lack of extension officers, and unavailability of vaccines. Madam Ellen Ameho, a poultry farmer, points out that poultry farmers do not receive enough support from the government as compared to the crop sector, adding the high cost of feed as a primary reason for increased livestock prices, discouraging young individuals from entering poultry farming. Other farmers echoed similar concerns, lack of extension officers, vaccines are hindering   their business they however appealed to the government to as matter of importance give livestock farmers the same attention crop farmers receive.

These issues extend beyond the three regions, affecting poultry farmers nationwide. Rising costs of inputs, coupled with disease outbreaks and market fluctuations, pose challenges for small-scale farmers. The farmers call for more government interventions to improve the livestock sector and ensure its sustainability.

In conclusion, achieving a balanced approach between the livestock and crop sectors is essential for the overall development of the agricultural sector. Livestock production plays a crucial role in meeting the growing demands of a population, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality protein, supporting rural economies, and contributing to socio-economic development. However, the livestock sector has often been overshadowed by the crop sector in terms of attention, investment, and technological advancements.

Recognizing the importance of sustainable livestock production, stakeholders, including industry experts and farmers, have emphasized the need for increased support, research funding, and policy attention for the livestock sector. Addressing challenges such as the environmental impact, access to resources, and disease control is crucial for its growth and resilience.

By providing equitable resources, promoting sustainable practices, and investing in technological innovations, governments and policymakers can empower livestock farmers and foster a more inclusive and resilient agricultural system. It is essential to bridge the gap between the livestock and crop sectors, ensuring that both receive adequate attention and support to meet the present and future food demands while promoting sustainability.

Through collaborative efforts, involving stakeholders from various sectors, we can create a more balanced and integrated approach that maximizes the potential of both livestock and crop production. By doing so, we can enhance food security, support rural communities, and contribute to sustainable agricultural development, ultimately benefiting both present and future generations.

What Is Your Opinion on This: IS THE LIVESTOCK SECTOR RECEIVING SAME ATTENTION AS THE CROP SECTOR?

BY:AGRIWATCH REPORTER