Ghana Will Be Self-Sufficient in Food Production – Dr. Bryan Acheampong
By: Doreen Boamah Darko
Accra, Ghana – In a bid to achieve food security and reduce the country’s dependence on food imports, the government of Ghana has set a target to become self-sufficient in food production within the next five years.
This ambitious goal was announced by Dr. Bryan Acheampong, Minister of State at the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, at the official opening of the National Farmers’ Day Agrifest- 2023 yesterday in Accra.
The government’s plan to achieve self-sufficiency in food production is through the implementation of Phase Two of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) program.
Launched in October by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the PFJ program aims to increase agricultural productivity, create jobs, and reduce the need for food imports.
The National Farmers’ Day, celebrated annually, recognizes the crucial role of agriculture in the country’s development agenda.
The event serves as a platform to honor Ghanaian farmers and fishers for their significant contribution to the local and national economy.
The celebration of this year’s National Farmers’ Day is preceded by a 5-day National Agricultural Festival, Agrifest Ghana 2023, scheduled from November 27th to December 1st, 2023.
The festival, held at the Ministerial enclave in Accra, showcases the achievements and innovations in the agricultural sector.
The highlight of the event will be the Awards Night Ceremony at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) on the first Friday of December.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will honor fifteen distinguished farmers and fishers for their outstanding performance.
These awards serve as a recognition of their dedication and hard work in contributing to the nation’s food security.
The theme for this year’s celebration, “Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience,” aligns with the objectives of the PFJ 2.0 program.
This program aims to achieve food security in Ghana by adopting a holistic approach that includes improving access to high-quality inputs, mechanization services, knowledge and advisory services, and structured market arrangements.
Dr. Bryan emphasized the need for increased investments in agricultural research, extension services, and technology development to enhance the country’s agricultural productive capacity.
He also highlighted the importance of partnerships with global, regional, and national development agencies to leverage the synergies of different programs and interventions.
The PFJ 2.0 program, a comprehensive and innovative approach, focuses on addressing constraints on productivity, market access, and sustainable production.
It aims to increase farm-level productivity through research, improved access to inputs and extension services, adoption of Climate Smart Agriculture practices, and structured market arrangements.
As Ghana celebrates National Farmers’ Day, the nation extends its congratulations to all farmers and fishers.
This special occasion is dedicated to honoring their tireless efforts in ensuring food security and contributing to the country’s economic growth.
With the government’s commitment and the dedication of Ghanaian farmers and fishers, the goal of self-sufficiency in food production is within reach.