Agric Minister Urges Ghanaians to Embrace Backyard Farming to ensure Hand in Hand for Better Food for Better Future.

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Addressing the participant at the 45th UN World Food Day Celebration

The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Hon. Eric Opoku, has urged Ghanaians to embrace backyard farming to ensure food security and promoting sustainable agriculture during the commemoration of 45th World Food Day and the 80th Anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Speaking at the event, Hon. Eric Opoku explained that the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) was established 80 years ago, following the devastation of the World Wars to eliminate hunger and starvation across the globe. He noted that Ghana was joining the rest of the world to celebrate both milestones, World Food Day and FAO’s 80th Anniversary under the theme of unity, productivity, and sustainability.

He encouraged every Ghanaian to participate in farming, particularly backyard gardening, to support the national drive for food self-sufficiency. He urged households to grow simple vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, onions, and garden eggs to save money and reduce household food expenses.

He called on the schools, from primary to tertiary levels and the other institutions such as the Military, Prisons Service, and Fire Service to establish small farms within their enclaves. According to him, such efforts will help to prevent food shortage and build a culture of agricultural engagement across all sectors.

Ghana is richly blessed with fertile lands, abundant water bodies, and a vibrant youthful population capable of driving agricultural productivity. He emphasized that with unity and collaboration, the nation can achieve a more resilient farming system and ensure food sufficiency for all.

“God has blessed our country with everything we need land, water, and energetic youth. All we need is unity to work together so that we can produce enough food for our people,” he added

He revealed that due to the government’s efforts and increased education on farming, local farmers have significantly expanded production. As a result, food production has improved across the country.

He disclosed that the price of a bag of maize now sells for GH¢300, based on information from farmers. However, he has encouraged them to sell their produce to the National Buffer Stock Company, which offers a higher purchase price of GH¢450 per bag. Similarly, 50kg bags of rice and gari will be sold to the Buffer Stock at GH¢625 each.

He further highlighted that President John Dramani Mahama is committed to supporting farmers who have achieved bumper harvests this season, noting that the government will provide the necessary assistance to ensure such farmers remain motivated and productive.

“It is the will of President Mahama to support farmers who have produced beyond expectations. The government will continue to help them so they can remain happy and successful in their farming work,” he affirmed.

The Minister announced plans to establish cold storage facilities to preserve perishable crops like cassava and other foodstuffs to minimize post-harvest losses.

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