The Northern Caucus of Parliament has launched an ambitious initiative aimed at expanding commercial rice production across the northern regions to create jobs and strengthen the local economy.
As part of the programme, six Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) and selected traditional leaders will embark on a sponsored study tour to Kenya to learn from the country’s large-scale rice production model.
In addition, Ghanaian investors are facilitating a similar trip for members of the caucus to Vietnam to study advanced rice processing techniques. The goal is to enhance production capacity, improve processing standards, and attract investment into Ghana’s rice value chain.
Announcing the initiative during an engagement with members of the Diplomatic Corps on Tuesday, November 4, the Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, said the visits are intended to expose local officials and chiefs to best practices that can be replicated in Ghana.
“We have invited six municipal and district chief executives, and they will be travelling to Kenya this weekend to study the country’s commercial rice production industry,” he explained.
Mr. Ayariga added that rice importers had also expressed interest in partnering with the caucus to develop the sector locally.
“The importers suggested taking us to Vietnam, where they currently source their rice, so we can see what makes Vietnam’s system successful and replicate it here. They are sponsoring the trip for five senior chiefs from the northern regions to observe how Vietnam has organised its production,” he stated.
He noted that the ultimate goal is to build a sustainable local rice industry where investors can confidently purchase Ghanaian-grown rice, thereby reducing dependence on imports and promoting economic growth in the northern enclave.
