The Peasant Farmers Association has expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s recent decision to ban the export of key grains, including maize, rice, and soybeans.
This ban, announced by Minister for Food and Agriculture Bryan Acheampong, aims to secure food supplies within the country due to a severe dry spell affecting eight regions.
President of the Peasant Farmers Association, Bismark Owusu Nortey expressed frustration during an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme Thursday.
He criticized the government for not consulting farmers before implementing the ban.
Nortey argued that farmers, as key stakeholders, should have been included in discussions to find a more comprehensive solution.
“The government failed to consult with farmers before implementing the ban. We, as key stakeholders, should have been included in discussions to find a more comprehensive solution”
Mr. Nortey also expressed concerns that the ban could lead to lower prices for farmers.
“Farmers might be forced to sell their produce at reduced rates to avoid spoilage. We need local measures to protect us from financial losses resulting from this export ban.”
He pointed out that, some farmers had invested heavily in production and are now struggling to repay loans due to their inability to sell their crops.
In his view, the ban could lead to lower prices for farmers, as they might be forced to sell their produce at reduced rates.
He stressed the need for local measures to protect farmers from potential financial losses resulting from the export ban.
Meanwhile, the government has announced an estimated GH¢8 billion ($500 million) plan to support farmers affected by the dry weather and ensure food security.
The funds will be sourced from a combination of the Contingency Fund, budget realignment, and development partners.
Mr. Bryan Acheampong on the same show revealed that famers in affected areas have lost approximately GH¢3.5 billion in investments, with a potential revenue loss of GH¢10.4 billion.
He mentioned that, the government is taking immediate actions to address the situation.
Mr. Acheampong added that, in the medium to long term, the sector would develop resilience to climatic conditions through increased irrigation and water management schemes.
He reassured that while the situation is serious, it may not lead to a full crisis as speculated.
The government is providing financial assistance, giving each farmer GH¢1,000 per hectare to mitigate the impact of the dry spell.
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