The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has announced a major policy shift that will see Ghana rely exclusively on locally produced seeds for its agricultural programmes starting in 2026.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Monday, November 24, the minister said the decision follows years of disruption caused by delays in the arrival of imported seeds, which often reached farmers long after the planting season had passed.
“To tackle this, the government has prioritised local seed production as a strategic imperative for food security… From 2026, MoFA will only supply locally sourced seeds to the Ghanaian farmers,” he announced.
The minister said the change is expected to boost the local seed industry, improve seed availability, and ensure timely delivery to farmers—all of which are critical for improved yields and national food security.
Mr. Opoku stressed that achieving seed sovereignty is essential for the country’s long-term agricultural stability. “Without seed sovereignty, there can be no food security,” he noted.
He highlighted the capacity and potential of Ghana’s agricultural research institutions, saying they possess the expertise required for seed research, development and testing. The ministry, he added, is fully prepared to work with them to strengthen domestic seed production systems.Source: Emma Ankrah
The United States government has officially lifted the 15% tariffs previously imposed on cocoa and selected agricultural products from Ghana, Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced.The U.S. diplomats formally communicated the decision to Ghana’s Mission in Washington, D.C.According to Mr. Ablakwa, the tariff reversal took effect on November 13, 2025, following the signing of a new Executive Order by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Mr.Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Products Now Exempted
The rescission covers not only cocoa but also a wide variety of Ghanaian exports, including:
· Cashew nuts
· Avocados
· Bananas
· Mangoes
· Oranges
· Limes
· Plantains
· Pineapples
· Guavas
· Coconuts
· Ginger
· Assorted peppers
Economic Impact
With Ghana exporting an average of 78,000 metric tons of cocoa beans annually to the U.S., and current spot prices at $5,300 per metric ton, the removal of tariffs is projected to generate an additional $60 million (GHS 667 million) in annual revenue for Ghana.
This development is expected to strengthen Ghana’s position in the global cocoa market, while also boosting the country’s agricultural sector and foreign exchange earnings.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Minister Ablakwa described the move as a “positive development,” emphasizing that Ghana and the United States will continue to deepen their partnership. The U.S., as the world’s leading importer of chocolate and cocoa products, remains a critical market for Ghana’s exports.“Ghana welcomes this positive development from the U.S. Our two nations will continue to forge closer and mutually beneficial relations,” he added.Source : Peacefmonline.com/Ghana
Up to 65 per cent of adult Ghanaians are unable to afford a healthy diet daily.
The recommended healthy diets consist of half a plate of vegetables and fruit, a quarter of a plate of carbohydrates, and another quarter of protein.
Prof. Anna Lartey, a Professor of Nutrition at the University of Ghana, made this known at a sensitisation workshop in Accra, dubbed “Beyond the dialogues, Tracking Ghana’s Commitments to Transform its food systems”.
The workshop was organised by the University of Ghana School of Public Health, with support from the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, and the Ghana Statistical Services (GSS), as part of a project to track the country’s food systems transformation commitments adopted in 2021.
Healthy, junk foods
Prof. Lartey explained that healthy foods were more expensive than “junk” foods, which made people opt for them.
For example, she said, fruits and vegetables were far more expensive than the sugar-laced drinks and fast foods.
She explained that these unhealthy foods were common on almost every street corner, and, therefore, came in handy.
Unhealthy eating habits came with dire consequences, she further explained.
The academic said such unhealthy foods were a primary cause of the many non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and other ailments in the country.
She, therefore, advised people to make significant changes to their diets to help reduce preventable deaths.
Prof. Lartey said 15 million deaths worldwide could be prevented if society adopted healthy diets, and called for a transformational change in “our food systems”.
The renowned nutritionist encouraged people to take personal responsibility for their diet.
Food environment
According to Prof. Lartey, who is the Project Co-Principal Investigator, food systems were influenced by the environment, and today’s food environment did not enable healthy choices.
She added that “Ghana made a number of commitments in terms of how to address the country’s food systems to make sure that it delivers on the health that we want.
So, this project is saying that we have held the dialogues, we have talked, now let us look at action.
What steps are we putting in place to ensure that the commitments we made are being achieved?”
The project’s Principal Investigator, Prof. Amos Laar of the University of Ghana’s School of Public Health, giving an overview of the project, said it was to track and monitor Ghana’s commitments.
He said the project aimed to use a science-based approach to track the implementation of the country’s commitments to transform its food systems.
He added that it also aimed at promoting the country’s food system and creating a safe food system environment.
Workshop
Over 160 United Nations Member States and representatives of regional blocs in 2021 committed to transforming their food systems by 2030 at the UN Food Systems Summit with the goal of ensuring sustainable, healthy diets for all.
Ghana, at the time, committed to 17 Food System transformation commitment goals by 2025, including increasing the percentage of early initiation of breastfeeding within one hour from 52 per cent in 2017 to 80 per cent, and increasing exclusive breastfeeding for six months from 42.9 per cent in 2017 to 62 per cent.
The workshop brought together stakeholders in the country’s food systems, such as civil society organisations, ministries, departments and agencies.Source: Graphic Online
Deputy Minister for Finance, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, says he will recommend a nationwide directive compelling all state institutions, not just schools, to procure locally produced rice and other food items as part of efforts to support farmers and curb post-harvest losses.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Friday, November 14, he said the original directive targeted schools and education-related agencies, but it should clearly apply to every government body involved in food procurement.
“Even though the directive specifically mentioned state institutions like schools, it doesn’t mean non-schools can go ahead and procure foreign goods. It is implied. But now that you are mentioning it, I’ll draw the attention of my minister… we should write to all state agencies that that directive applies to them as well,” he explained.
He argued that it would be illogical for schools to buy local produce while other state bodies continue to purchase imported items. “It won’t make sense to only focus on schools when other state institutions are buying sultana, rice, and others.”
Mr Ampem noted that the move is part of a broader strategy to prevent food waste and support local farmers following this year’s surplus harvest. According to him, the President has already directed the Finance Ministry to release funds to address the situation.
“The President directed us to make available 200 million cedis immediately to purchase this food glut all over… by next week to Buffer Stock to go and mop up all these food excess that we have and store,” he said.
He welcomed the accompanying instruction requiring schools and government institutions to prioritise local produce. “All schools, all government institutions that are buying food must buy from the Buffer Stock store, buy locally. And we expect the Minister for Education and Director General for GES to implement this strictly.”
Mr Ampem warned that farmers could scale back production if their harvest continues to go to waste. “If we are not able to do this and farmers’ produce goes to waste, do you think they will be encouraged to produce again next year?”
He stressed that strict enforcement will be essential to making the policy work. “It is about enforcement and cracking the whip when you have to… Everybody has a responsibility to play a role in making sure that all these policies work.”
He urged school heads and other public-sector buyers to understand the rationale behind the local procurement push. “It is important that we let headmasters… appreciate that you are doing this because you are helping the government solve this problem. If we consume made-in-Ghana food, we are keeping farmers in their jobs here.”
He also encouraged the media to highlight any breaches. “If you have cause to suspect that someone is flouting this, bring it to our attention and we’ll crack the whip.”
The Deputy Minister added that boosting demand for local produce will help stabilise prices and support long-term economic growth. “If we are able to bring down food inflation… we will be able to bring down inflation in this country, and the benefits will be there for all of us.”Source: Clara Seshie
President John Mahama has ordered the Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, to release an additional GH₵200 million to buy surplus maize from farmers affected by the ongoing glut across the country.
This move forms part of the government’s wider plan to curb food wastage, strengthen national food security, and preserve surplus produce for future use.
Speaking at the launch of the Nkoko Nkitinkiti Poultry Initiative in Kumasi, President Mahama said the government had already released GH₵100 million to address the situation, but the funds were not enough to clear the surplus.
“Our farmers are worried. There’s a glut on the market, so I asked the Finance Minister to provide GH₵100 to the National Buffer Stock Company to buy up the surplus maize so that when there’s a shortage later in the year, it can be released. They have finished purchasing with the first GH₵100 million, but there’s still a lot of maize on the market and prices remain low.”
President John Mahama
He explained that with prices continuing to fall and farmers unable to make profits, the government had decided to take further action.
“I’ve directed the Finance Minister to release an additional GH₵200 million to buy the remaining glut and store it for future use,” he stated.
President Mahama added that the same approach would be applied to other crops, including rice. “It is the same situation with rice. I’ve instructed the Buffer Stock Company to purchase the excess and keep it as well,” he said.
The President also mentioned measures to support poultry farmers. “I have also instructed Buffer Stock to purchase rice from our local farmers to prevent losses. For eggs, I have asked the managers of the school feeding programme to include eggs in student meals,” he added.
He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting farmers, stabilising agricultural markets, and protecting the nation’s food supply chain, stressing that “no Ghanaian farmer should suffer losses simply because they produced in abundance.”Source: Clara Seshie
The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has disclosed that the government will require about GH¢500 million to address the ongoing oversupply of farm produce, commonly referred to as a food glut.
Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Monday, November 10, 2025, Mr. Opoku stressed the importance of a coordinated and data-driven approach in resolving the issue, warning that inaction could discourage farmers from reinvesting in agriculture.
“You do not just get up and move into a farm because there is a glut. You need to move there with your technical team to ascertain the amount of farm produce to be procured.
“From the figures we are receiving, we will need about GH¢500 million to be able to clear it,” he said.
The Minister revealed that his outfit is in discussions with the World Food Programme and other development partners to explore strategies for managing the glut and preventing future occurrences.
Mr.Eric Opoku
“If we are able to deal with it properly, it can encourage our farmers to reinvest in farming because it becomes profitable. But if we don’t act and allow these foods to go to waste, it will be a huge loss of the century, and people will be demotivated to invest in agriculture,” Mr. Opoku added.
The government’s move forms part of broader efforts to stabilise food prices, protect farmers’ livelihoods, and ensure sustainable agricultural production nationwide.By:William Narh
We are thrilled to announce that Legacy Crop Improvement Centre has been honoured with the GNCCI Koforidua Regional Business Award at the 5th Chamber Business Awards 2024, held yesterday, November 8, 2025, at the Accra International Conference Centre.
This recognition by the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) celebrates our commitment to agricultural transformation, climate-smart innovation, and sustainable development across Ghana’s Eastern Region and beyond.
To God Be the Glory
This achievement is truly the doing of the LORD, and we receive it with hearts full of gratitude and humility.
A Tribute to Our Farmers
We dedicate this award to our farmers – the true pillars of our success. Your trust, resilience, and partnership have made this journey possible. We also extend our deepest appreciation to all our stakeholders, partners, and team members who have contributed to building the Legacy Crop Improvement Centre into a regional powerhouse for climate-smart agricultural excellence.
Together, we are not just growing crops – we are cultivating a legacy of prosperity, innovation, and hope for generations to come.
Thank you for believing in our vision. The best is yet to come!
Date: 7th November 2025
Venue: Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi
Preamble:
The Ghana Association of Agricultural Economists (GAAE) held its 8th Annual Conference from 6th to 7th November 2025 at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, under the theme “Transforming Agri-Food Systems in Developing Economies through Sustainable Agribusiness Development.”
The Conference brought together agricultural economists, agribusiness experts, agricultural extensionists, agronomists, postgraduate students from universities, research institutes across Ghana and beyond as well as captains of agribusinesses, young agripreneurs and policy makers. Over 70 research papers were presented at the Conference, covering a wide range of topics including agricultural policy, rural finance and markets, value chain development, postharvest losses, food security, and rural livelihoods, among others.
Practitioners in the industry also exhibited their technologies and products.
Participants engaged in lively discussions on how sustainable agribusiness can drive structural transformation, job creation, and resilience within agri-food systems. The plenary sessions provided an opportunity for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to share experiences, identify challenges, and propose practical and interdisciplinary solutions for advancing sustainable agriculture and agribusiness in Ghana, across Africa and globally.
Key Issues Discussed:
1. Sustainable Cocoa Initiative & the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)
Discussants emphasized that the adoption of sustainable cocoa production practices is non-negotiable if Ghana is to maintain its access to premium international markets and protect its natural environment.
However, there is urgent need for empirical data on carbon sequestration across different cocoa farming and cropping systems. Such evidence is essential to guide both policy formulation and field-level practices in line with sustainability and environmental standards.
Developing Sustainable Agribusiness in Africa
Industry leaders shared valuable lessons from their practical experiences, particularly in building resilient agribusinesses under challenging economic conditions.
Young people aspiring to enter the agribusiness space should “dream big, start small, and start now,” by adopting a mindset of innovation and persistence.
Given the limited access to financing from formal institutions, agribusiness start-ups should leverage Other People’s Resources (OPRs) and explore partnerships with established firms.
For long-term sustainability, agribusiness owners in Africa should groom and mentor successors, to ensure smooth business continuity and intergenerational transfer of knowledge.
Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security
There is urgent need to promote climate-smart and ecologically sound agricultural practices to safeguard food security in tropical regions which are increasingly threatened by climate change and food insecurity.
In the face of water scarcity, the Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) Technology should be promoted and scaled among rice farmers to improve rice productivity and profitability in Ghana.
The collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and private sector actors should be strengthened to develop and scale up innovative technologies and management systems that sustain productivity, minimize food losses & waste, and improve food security, while conserving biodiversity and soil health.
Private sector operators in the agri-food sector should leverage the expertise of GAAE members to conduct cutting-edge research that offers innovative solutions to the business challenges they face.
A call for Action on the part of Government:
In addition to providing enabling policy environment, we (GAAE members) call on the government to increase the budgetary allocation (at least 10%) for the agricultural sector to ensure adequate investment in the agribusiness sector to drive the needed transformation in the agri-food system in Ghana.
Sustainable Agribusiness is critical in achieving the objectives of the Feed Ghana Programme. The Ghana Association of Agricultural Economists (GAAE) stands ready to offer technical support to the programme.
Conclusion:
The conference concluded with a renewed commitment from GAAE and its partners to foster evidence-based policymaking, strengthen public–private partnership, and build the capacity of the next generation of agribusiness leaders. Participants affirmed that transforming agri-food systems through sustainable agribusiness is key to achieving inclusive growth, food security, and environmental sustainability in Ghana and beyond.
Issued in Kumasi, this 7th day of November 2025
Ghana Association of Agricultural Economists (GAAE)
The partners of the Eat Ghana Rice Campaign are appealing to all Ghanaian citizens, institutions, and corporate bodies to urgently turn to the consumption of domestically produced Ghana Rice to help resolve the immediate crisis of rice glut and safeguard the livelihoods of our dedicated farmers.
Media reports over the last week have highlighted a deeply concerning situation: an estimated 1.3 million metric tonnes of paddy rice are currently stalled, unsold, and stored in warehouses across the country due to a lack of buyers. This significant glut threatens to cause catastrophic losses for millions of Ghanaian farmers who have worked tirelessly to achieve record harvests.
A file picture
We sincerely appreciate the intervention efforts currently being made by the government and the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) to purchase excess stock. However, these governmental efforts alone cannot solve the problem. While we support these efforts by the government to mop up the glut, we call on Ghanaians to join the efforts and play our individual roles in helping tackle the challenge. Since 2019, the Eat Ghana Rice Campaign has been emphasising that the main sustainable and definitive solution lies in a collective, fundamental shift in our national consumption habits. The simple act of choosing Ghana Rice over imported ones will reduce the glut and empower our agricultural sector for the long term.
We understand that for years, the primary barrier to purchasing Ghana Rice was the lingering perception of inferior quality and concerns about the presence of stones and foreign materials. We are here to declare that this perception is outdated and inaccurate. The Ghana Rice value chain has undergone a dramatic, technological revolution. Millers have invested heavily in state-of-the-art dehusking, grading, polishing, and color sorting equipment.
Our leading brands are now meticulously processed using sophisticated machinery to ensure a clean, consumer-ready grain, in conformity with Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) standards. Ghana Rice grains are now beautifully polished, consistent in size, and deliver the non-sticky, fluffy texture that is essential for perfect Jollof, Waakye, and Plain Rice dishes. Unlike imported rice that spends months in transit, Ghana Rice comes straight from our fields to your plate, retaining a fresh, unique aroma and flavour, and are healthier and more nutritious. Ghana Rice brands are also cheaper.
The statistics surrounding our consumption habits are stark and demand immediate action. The Ghana Statistical Service’s 2024 Trade Report indicates that despite the availability of high-quality Ghana Rice alternatives, rice accounted for 7.8% of our nation’s total food imports in 2024. In monetary terms, our country spent an astonishing GHS 3 Billion on rice importation last year. Every grain of imported rice purchased is a vote of confidence in foreign farmers and foreign economies.
Consuming Ghana Rice is a patriotic investment in the future of our food systems. It is the most direct way for every Ghanaian citizen, household, restaurant, hotel, and company to keep billions of Cedis circulating within the Ghanaian economy. It can also help ensure a stable currency and create more jobs for women and youth. It will additionally build our national resilience against global food price shocks and supply chain disruptions. We urge every Ghanaian to walk into the market or supermarket today and actively seek out Ghana Rice brands and purchase for the good of our dear Mother Ghana.
Signed
Eat Ghana Rice Campaign Partners (John A. Kufuor Foundation, Competitive African Rice Platform (CARP) of the ECOWAS Rice Observatory (ERO), Ghana Rice Interprofessional Body (GRIB), Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG), Hopeline Institute, Farm Wallet, and AGRA. For media interviews, please call Dr. Nana Ama Aning Oppong – Duah of the Eat Ghana Rice Campaign on 0260600636.
The Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana ,has called for a comprehensive grain crisis response:3-month rice import moratorium,repeal of L.I.2432 & strategic state intervention.
The statement dated 4th November,2025,was signed by Farmer Anthony Kofituo Morrison,Chief Executive Officer,Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana (CAG),is reproduced below;
The full statement is reproduced below;
November 4, 2025
Accra, Ghana
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CHAMBER OF AGRIBUSINESS GHANA CALLS FOR COMPREHENSIVE GRAIN CRISIS RESPONSE: 3-MONTH RICE IMPORT MORATORIUM, REPEAL OF L.I. 2432, AND STRATEGIC STATE INTERVENTION
Accra, Ghana – The Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana (CAG) today declares a national agricultural emergency following the alarming revelation that over 1.2 million metric tonnes of rice, maize, and soya beans remain stranded across Ghana’s agricultural heartlands. This paradoxical crisis of surplus amidst production deficits demands immediate, decisive government intervention to prevent the collapse of our domestic grains sector.
THE CURRENT MARKET CRISIS – PARADOX SURPLUS AMIDST DEFICIT
Data from our field operations confirms a devastating reality: while Ghana faces significant production shortfalls in key commodities, local harvests remain unsold due to critical market distortions and policy inconsistencies.
· Rice Sector Crisis: Ghana’s annual rice consumption is estimated at 1.9 million metric tonnes, with local production at approximately 900,000 metric tonnes. Despite a theoretical deficit requiring imports, field data confirms, almost two years’ worth of both milled and paddy rice remain unsold in warehouses and factories. Compounding this crisis are credible reports of smuggling and inflows of expired rice through unapproved routes, resulting in significant tax losses and further market distortion.
· Maize and Soya Bean Dynamics: For maize, Ghana’s annual consumption of 3.3 million metric tonnes exceeds local production of 2.5 million metric tonnes, creating a 700,000 metric tonnes shortfall. Meanwhile, soya bean production of 225,000–250,000 metric tonnes represents only 26%–36% of Ghana’s potential capacity of 700,000 metric tonnes, yet domestic demand exceeds 300,000 metric tonnes and continues growing.
POLICY INCONSISTENCIES AND UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES
The Export and Import (Restriction on Exportation of Soya Beans) Regulations, 2020 (L.I. 2432) has created severe market distortions despite its intention to ensure adequate local supply for poultry and aquaculture and industries:
· Price Collapse: Farm gate prices have plummeted from GH¢650 to GH¢400 per bag
· Warehouse Gridlock: Thousands of bags remain locked up in warehouses across the Northern Region and the Southern parts of the Country.
· Production Disincentives: Farmers are increasingly shifting to other crops due to market constraints
IMMEDIATE MEASURES TO RESOLVE THE CRISIS
To address this emergency, the Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana demands the following immediate actions
Implement a 3-Month Moratorium on Rice Imports
We urgently call for an immediate three-month ban on rice importation to clear existing local stockpiles, provide relief to farmers and millers, and enable essential market recalibration.
Remove Export Restrictions on Soya Beans (L.I. 2432)
We demand immediate repeal of L.I. 2432 to restore market prices, eliminate warehouse gridlock, encourage increased cultivation, and help Ghana realize its production potential of 700,000 MT annually.
Implement Comprehensive Audit and Quota System
We strongly recommend that, the Ministry of Trade Agribusiness and Industry, the National Security, Ghana Revenue Authority, Ghana Standards Authority and the Food and Drugs Authority immediately conduct an extensive audit of all rice on the market to validate tax compliance, check quality standards, and eradicate smuggled products.
STRATEGIC STATE INTERVENTION
Beyond immediate measures, we propose the government establish a Strategic Grain Reserve Procurement Program to
· Immediate Market Relief: Deploy state funds through the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) to purchase surplus grains directly from farmers at sustainable prices
· Price Stabilization Mechanism: Create a national grain price stabilization fund to ensure predictable pricing for both farmers and grain-based industries
· ECOWAS Commitment Fulfillment: Utilize purchased grains to redeem Ghana’s commitments to regional food security initiatives, including the ECOWAS Regional Food Security Storage Strategy
· Industrial Input Security: Ensure stable, affordable grain supply to poultry, livestock, and food processing industries to boost domestic manufacturing
FRAMEWORK FOR LONG-TERM SECTOR GROWTH
The Chamber wish to propose a comprehensive framework for sectoral growth
· 5-Year Ghana Rice Production Strategy: Led by the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and Ministry of Trade and Industry, featuring a phased import quota system aligned with increasing local production capacity
· Quality and Infrastructure Enhancement: Research initiatives to improve local rice varieties matching consumer preferences, plus targeted investments in irrigation, mechanization, and processing capacity
· Private Sector Agro-Processing Development: Support establishment of more Agro-
processing industries to increase local processing capacity
· Long-Term Agriculture Development Policy: A comprehensive Agriculture for Economic Transformation policy to spur investment and coordinate government support
CONCLUSION
We must safeguard the investments of our local farmers and agribusinesses to build a food-secure and economically resilient Ghana. CAG believes decisive action on these recommendations will not only resolve the current grain glut but also reposition Ghana’s grains sector as a driver of sustainable growth and national resilience.
Signed:Farmer Anthony Kofituo Morrison,Chief Executive Officer,,Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana (CAG)
