Minority's Bono East tour reveals growing risk of farmers exit from farming

The Minority Caucus in Parliament has raised alarm over what it describes as a growing threat to Ghana’s agricultural sector, following a three-day tour of the Bono East Region that revealed many farmers are considering abandoning farming due to persistent losses and market uncertainty.

The tour, led by Frank Annoh-Dompreh, covered nine constituencies and involved engagements with farmers and traders. The interactions, the Caucus said, exposed not only deep economic hardship but also a declining level of confidence in agriculture as a viable livelihood.

From Atebubu to Techiman, farmers recounted a pattern of heavy investment with little or no returns. Many said they had taken loans to finance production but were left with unsold produce or compelled to sell at prices below cost, leading to mounting debts and difficulty preparing for subsequent farming seasons.

The situation appears particularly dire among younger farmers, many of whom indicated they are reconsidering their future in the sector. They cited unpredictable markets, weak support systems and low profitability as key challenges driving their frustration.

Women traders also reported declining business activity and shrinking household incomes, reflecting the broader impact of the downturn across the agricultural value chain.

At major trading hubs such as Techiman, the Caucus observed a slowdown in market activity, with traders attributing the trend to inefficiencies in the supply chain and reduced demand linked to farmer distress.

The Minority warned that if the situation persists, Ghana could face serious long term consequences, including reduced domestic food production and increased reliance on imports.

It stressed that the issue goes beyond farmer welfare, describing it as a matter of national food security and economic stability.

The Caucus has pledged to raise the concerns in Parliament and push for urgent interventions, including improved market systems, financial support for struggling farmers and policies aimed at restoring profitability in the sector.

According to the group, the findings from the Bono East tour highlight a critical reality that without swift and decisive action, the country risks losing a significant portion of its farming workforce.