The CEO of Akuafo Nketewa, Dr. Charles Nyaaba, has emphasized the need for a genuine and inclusive implementation of the government’s “Feed Ghana” program to ensure it delivers real transformation for farmers across the country.
Speaking on A1 Radio, he expressed cautious optimism about the program’s potential impact on the general Ghanaian populace. While acknowledging the promise the initiative holds, Dr. Nyaaba noted that the concept alone is not enough to guarantee success. Drawing on lessons from past agricultural policies such as the “Planting for Food and Jobs” initiative, he pointed out that implementation has historically been skewed in favor of political interests, with only a limited number of beneficiaries gaining from such projects.
“The concept in itself is not enough to convince me that it’s going to lead to the transformational change we are looking for. I say this because of our previous experiences,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of involving stakeholders who are already embedded in farming communities and have established relationships with farmers. According to him, these grassroots actors are better positioned to ensure that government support reaches those who truly need it.
“The concept itself is good. If the government follows through with proper implementation, we won’t have problems. But if it mirrors previous approaches, that’s when issues will arise,” he warned.
To foster collaboration and ensure the right voices are heard, Dr. Nyaaba announced that a meeting with farmer groups from across the Upper East Region is scheduled to take place in the regional capital, Bolgatanga. The gathering aims to provide an opportunity for farmers to directly communicate their expectations to government representatives. An invitation, he noted, has also been extended to the Minister for Food and Agriculture.
Dr. Nyaaba underscored that for “Feed Ghana” to succeed, it must reflect the priorities and realities of farmers on the ground. He cautioned that if the government proceeds without incorporating the input of these key stakeholders, it risks repeating the shortcomings of past initiatives.
“I strongly believe that if the government wants to develop the grain sector, they should work with people who are already working with farmers in the communities,” he said.
“The farmers will tell them exactly what needs to be done under ‘Feed Ghana’. If they go back and do things on their own and it doesn’t work, that wouldn’t be our fault. We just hope the implementation meets the expectations of the real farmers who deserve it,” he added.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
