Former Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has clarified the process behind the ongoing fertilizer distribution under the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) 2.0 programme, following public questions raised during his recent engagement with farmers in Ejura.
During a meeting, a participant identified as the Campaign Coordinator for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia questioned the transparency and intent behind the distribution exercise, suggesting possible political influence in the process.
Responding, Dr. Acheampong explained that the fertilizer support initiative was introduced as part of a data-driven intervention to mitigate the impact of drought on Ghanaian farmers. He emphasized that the programme was not politically motivated, but designed to support registered farmers under PFJ 2.0.
“The fertiliser relief initiative is a national policy response to drought,” he stated. “Only farmers captured in the verified PFJ 2.0 database are eligible to benefit.”
He added that distribution is managed at the district level by local authorities, including District Chief Executives, Members of Parliament, and Parliamentary Candidates, under strict supervision from the Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
Dr. Acheampong further highlighted reforms introduced under the PFJ 2.0 programme, including the abolition of the fertilizer subsidy model and the introduction of a zero-interest Input Credit System, which he said has benefited over 200,000 farmers nationwide.
He urged the public to hold local implementers accountable for any delays or hoarding, noting that the Ministry’s role is to provide the inputs and policy framework.
