Ghana’s Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Eric Opoku, has expressed deep concern over the country’s reliance on imported chicken, which costs over $2 billion annually.
Speaking to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the Manhyia Palace,during a courtesy call to the Manhyia palace,Hon Eric Opoku emphasized the need to encourage local poultry farming to reduce food importation.
This call to action is part of the government’s broader strategy to boost the agricultural sector and promote economic growth.
The State of Poultry Imports in Ghana.
Ghana imports over 95% of its chicken, with the annual cost exceeding $2 billion. This significant expenditure highlights the need for the country to develop its poultry industry.
By supporting local farmers and industries, Ghana can reduce its reliance on foreign poultry products and save valuable foreign exchange.
Encouraging School Farming.
To promote local farming, Minister Opoku is encouraging schools to take up farming, from basic schools to universities.
Schools that excel in farming will be honored to motivate them and encourage others to follow suit.
This initiative aims to instill a culture of farming in the younger generation and develop a new generation of farmers.
Nkoko Nketenkete Project.
The government is committed to fulfilling its campaign promise, the “Nkoko Nketenkete” project, which aims to increase local bird production and reduce importation costs.
This project will not only boost the poultry industry but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
Supporting Local Industries.
To support local industries, Hon Eric Opoku visited A2 Agro Allied, a private firm that manufactures chicken feeds.
The firm is willing to collaborate with individual farmers who can cultivate maize and soybeans to serve as raw materials for the industry.
This partnership will help to promote local production of chicken feeds, reducing reliance on imported feeds and supporting the growth of the poultry industry.
Feed Ghana Programme.
The Minister’s efforts are part of the broader “Feed Ghana Programme,” an initiative designed to transform Ghana’s agricultural landscape. The program aims to enhance local agricultural production, minimize reliance on food imports, and create sustainable job opportunities.
Key features of the initiative include establishing farmers’ service centers, promoting the development of grains and legumes, and introducing cutting-edge technologies.
By supporting local poultry farming and promoting agricultural development, Ghana can reduce its reliance on imported food items, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. The government’s commitment to initiatives like the “Nkoko Nketenkete” project and the “Feed Ghana Programme” demonstrates its determination to develop the agricultural sector and promote economic growth.
With the right policies and support, Ghana’s agricultural sector can thrive, contributing to the country’s economic development and food security .
Source:Ayisah Foster||Punch newspaper
