The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has expressed concern over Ghana’s heavy reliance on imported food products, urging immediate action to bolster local agriculture and reduce imports.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, and his team at the Manhyia Palace on Friday, June 13, the revered monarch underscored the importance of self-reliance in food production. He emphasized that Ghana possesses the resources and potential to grow many of the food items it currently imports, such as tomatoes and onions.
“It’s sad we import tomatoes and onions. Work hard to ensure that the importation of food is ceased. Even if we import, there should be a reduction so that we grow in Ghana. I will be watching you closely. Ensure the provisions of irrigation to farmers,” Otumfuo remarked.
The Asantehene also advocated for initiatives to reignite interest in agriculture, especially among Ghana’s youth.
Otumfuo further called on chiefs and traditional leaders to contribute by offering land as equity for farming ventures, highlighting the importance of collective effort in addressing the country’s agricultural challenges.
The Minister, Eric Opoku, thanked the Asantehene for his guidance and pledged to intensify efforts to address the concerns raised. He also outlined plans by the Ministry to improve irrigation infrastructure and incentivize farmers.
The Asantehene’s remarks come at a critical time when the nation’s food import bill continues to rise, raising concerns about food security and economic sustainability. His call for action serves as a rallying cry for stakeholders to prioritize agriculture as a cornerstone of Ghana’s development.
