Otumfuo calls for agricultural revolution to end food import dependency

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has expressed deep concern over Ghana’s continued reliance on imported food items such as onions and tomatoes, calling for a radical transformation of the country’s agricultural sector to support the government’s “Feed Ghana” initiative.

Speaking during a courtesy call by the management of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture at the Manhyia Palace, Otumfuo questioned why a country like Ghana should still be importing basic vegetables for both domestic consumption and industrial use.

“The government’s Feed Ghana project reminds me of former President Kutu Acheampong’s ‘Operation Feed Yourself’ initiative,” he noted. “Let’s all embrace this vision and make it a reality to end Ghana’s dependency on food imports.”

Otumfuo urged the youth to take greater interest in agriculture and appealed to traditional leaders to support the sector by making lands available for farming. He criticized the practice of demanding large upfront payments from farmers before releasing land, suggesting instead that chiefs consider negotiating for a share of future yields.

“The money Nananom demand from farmers before releasing farmlands is not helping promote agriculture. It’s time we move to a system where chiefs negotiate for percentages rather than lump sums,” he stated.

The Asantehene also commended the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, for his commitment and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the sector effectively.

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“You have my full support to transform agriculture. Let’s remember that gold and oil alone cannot develop this country we must prioritize agriculture,” Otumfuo said.

In response, Minister Eric Opoku expressed appreciation for the support and acknowledged the efforts of Kumasi-based company K2 for establishing a poultry feed processing factory to meet the demands of local poultry farmers.

He also announced that the government’s domestic poultry production initiative, dubbed “Nkoko Nkitinkiti,” will soon be launched in Kumasi.

This project, part of the NDC’s 2024 campaign manifesto, aims to significantly boost poultry production in the country.

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“Ghana currently imports nearly $2 billion worth of poultry products annually, which accounts for about 95 percent of poultry meat consumed locally. With the ‘Nkoko Nkitinkiti’ project, we aim to reduce this heavy dependence on imports,” the minister revealed to Otumfuo

The initiative he said is expected to enhance food security, create jobs, and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the country.