Bawumia Meets Rice Farmers, Highlights Agriculture Challenges

Former Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer Mahamudu Bawumia has called for greater attention to agriculture, describing food production as important to Ghana's economic stability and food security.

Speaking during an engagement with rice farmers at Asutsuare in the Shai-Osudoku District on November 13, Bawumia said Ghana should reduce its reliance on imported food and strengthen local food production.

The meeting provided an opportunity for farmers under the Asutsuare-Akuse Irrigation Scheme to draw attention to challenges facing the sector, including difficulties in selling locally produced rice. Farmers said large quantities of rice have remained unsold for more than two years, with some stocks deteriorating in storage.

One farmer, Sika Bright, said he holds more than 100 tonnes of unsold rice and noted that many producers are facing difficulties servicing loans used to expand production.

During the engagement, Bawumia identified access to fertiliser, irrigation infrastructure and market availability as major challenges affecting rice production. He proposed measures including the completion of Phase Two of the Kpong Irrigation Scheme and increased procurement of locally produced rice by public institutions.

According to Adom News, he also indicated that concerns raised by the farmers would be reflected in his upcoming manifesto and said support for rice farmers would form part of his policy proposals.

The discussion comes amid ongoing efforts to increase domestic rice production and reduce dependence on imports. The government's 2027 Budget outlines measures aimed at expanding local rice consumption and production, including a phased reduction in commercial rice imports and investments in storage infrastructure.

Ghana's rice production has increased in recent years, while concerns over market access and post-harvest losses continue to be raised by stakeholders in the sector.