The President of the Ghana National Association of Farmers and Fishermen (GNAFF), Michael Akwetey, has applauded President John Dramani Mahama’s renewed commitment to invest heavily in the agricultural sector.
Speaking on Happy 98.9 FM’s Epa Hoa Daben show with Bismark Brown, Mr. Akwetey expressed optimism about the promises made by President Mahama since assuming office.
He highlighted that if properly implemented, these initiatives would significantly enhance agricultural productivity and support farmers across the country.
Among the key interventions, Mr. Akwetey mentioned the government’s plan to develop a two-hectare irrigation facility to support farmers, particularly during the dry season. He described this as a game-changing move that could ensure year-round farming and improved crop yields.
He also disclosed that the government intends to establish 660 Agricultural Service Centres in all districts nationwide. These centres will house farming equipment such as tractors and other machinery to support farmers, especially those who struggle to rent or hire such tools.
According to Mr. Akwetey, discussions with the Minister for Food and Agriculture indicate that the implementation of these initiatives will commence soon.
He also praised the government’s Feed Ghana initiative, which he believes will make agriculture more attractive, especially to the youth. He stressed that such programmes will help dispel the perception that farming is a form of punishment or a last resort.
Mr. Akwetey urged young people to take advantage of these upcoming opportunities and venture into agriculture, describing it as a path to sustainable livelihoods and national development.
