The National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) has received significant cash from the Cabinet to buy excess agricultural products from Ghanaian farmers, according to Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga.
Legislators and agricultural stakeholders have been putting increasing pressure on the government to take significant action in order to address growing fears about a possible food surplus in the nation.
Mr. Ayariga made the announcement in direct response to a request on the floor of Parliament from Nureedin Mohammed, the Member of Parliament for Nalerigu Gambaga, who asked the Minister of Food and Agriculture to report to Parliament next week on the steps being taken to prevent an impending glut in the food supply chain.
Mr. Mohammed emphasised the possibility of post-harvest losses as well as the financial burden that unsold produce—especially rice and maize—places on farmers.
However, the Majority Leader stated that Cabinet has taken preemptive measures to guarantee that farmers would not be negatively impacted by the quantity of their harvest.
“Funds have been approved to empower Ghana Buffer Stock to purchase excess grains and other farm produce, ensuring that farmers are supported and food reserves are strengthened,” he stated.
With the money, the Buffer Stock Company would be able to purchase excess rice and maize from the market, including leftover supplies from the previous growing season.
The measure would stabilise the agricultural sector, reduce post-harvest losses, and guarantee steady food inflation.
In addition to improving national food security by increasing strategic reserves and stabilising prices in the face of oversupply, the intervention is anticipated to lower post-harvest losses by giving farmers instant access to markets.
The decision has been greeted with relief by farmers across, who are glad that their hard work will not be in vain.
The government’s reaction has also been commended by agricultural advocacy groups, which point out that such actions are essential to maintaining the momentum of Ghana’s agricultural transformation.
Mr. Ayariga reassured members of Parliament that the administration is still dedicated to safeguarding farmers’ interests and making sure that the abundant crop results in national wealth, even while the legislature awaits a formal briefing from the Minister of Food and Agriculture.
Source: newsthemegh.com