Adopt Burkina Faso’s agric model – Dr. Charles Nyaaba urges gov’t

The Chief Executive Officer of Akuafo Nketewa, Dr. Charles Nyaaba, has issued a passionate call to the Government of Ghana to adopt bold reforms in the agricultural sector, taking a cue from neighboring Burkina Faso’s efficient farming practices.

Speaking at the 2025 Preseason Planning & Farmers Awards Ceremony in Bolgatanga, Upper East Region, Dr. Nyaaba emphasized the urgent need to shift the mindset around farming—from a way of life to a strategic business enterprise.

“Farming is no longer just a way of life; it is a business,” he declared. “We call on the government to provide a sound, enabling environment that allows agribusinesses to thrive.”

Dr. Nyaaba’s remarks came amid growing concerns over persistent challenges faced by Ghanaian farmers, including prolonged dry spells, soaring input costs, and limited market access in the 2024 farming season.

Highlighting key interventions needed for transformation, he urged the government to:

1. Complete the long-delayed Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam project
2. Reinstate agricultural subsidies
3. Operationalize Farmer Service Centres nationwide
4. Depoliticize agriculture for consistent policy implementation

Despite the hurdles, Dr. Nyaaba proudly reported that Akuafo Nketewa supported over 55,000 farmers across northern Ghana in 2024. This included 20,000 rice farmers, 5,000 soybean farmers, and 30,000 sorghum farmers.

Notably, over 10,000 metric tonnes of sorghum were supplied to Guinness Ghana Brewery PLC.

The event, themed “Honoring Our Farmers: Advancing Food Security and Economic Growth through Active Youth Entrepreneurship and Agribusiness,” drew over 500 participants, including farmers, aggregators, and development partners.

Several top-performing farmer groups received knapsack sprayers and essential logistics in recognition of their efforts.

Dr. Nyaaba reaffirmed Akuafo Nketewa’s mission to turn smallholder farming into a profitable, youth-driven sector, urging a new era of agricultural professionalism to secure Ghana’s food future.