Dr Bryan Acheampong, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, says government is committed to expanding irrigation infrastructure and access to sustainable water systems in regions prone to drought.
The vision of the government, according to him, would play a critical role in building resilience to climate change and making all-year-round production possible.
He was speaking at a recent Farmers’ Day celebration under the theme: “Building Climate Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable Food Security.”
The event highlighted the dedication and hard work of farmers, fishers and actors within the agricultural value chain, while honouring the vital role the sector plays in the nation’s development and addressing the pressing challenges brought on by climate change.
This year’s theme emphasises the critical need for a climate-resilient agricultural system to counteract the increasing threats from erratic weather, droughts and emerging pests and diseases.
Dr Bryan Acheampong noted the challenges faced since the launch of Phase 2 of the Planting for Food and Jobs program by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo-Addo in August 2023.
He mentioned that the initiative encountered significant difficulties due to severe weather events, including flooding from the Akosombo dam and an unprecedented drought affecting eight northern regions.
The Minister of Food and Agriculture further stated that despite the existential challenges presented by climate change, the agricultural sector had seen growth from 2.6 percent in 2016 to an average of 5.7 percent between 2017 and 2023.
He attributed the positive change to strategic investments and programmes implemented by the government in the sector, with the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) as the main vehicle, which also improved farmers’ access to certified seeds, fertilisers and mechanisation services.
“This resulted in increased crop productivity and production of targeted crops. Yields of maize, rice and soya beans, for example, increased by 135 percent, 67 percent and 18 percent respectively, while production of cereals, legumes, roots and tubers increased by 106 percent, 68 percent and 59 percent respectively, from 2016 to 2023.
The country also achieved food self-sufficiency in major food staples, such as maize (122 percent), soya bean (106 percent), cassava (107 percent), plantains (133 percent) and yam (110 percent),” he explained.
To bolster agricultural resilience, several initiatives were proposed, including the promotion of climate-smart practices, expansion of irrigation systems, enhancement of agricultural extension services, and improved financial access for farmers.
The introduction of the Ghana Agriculture and Agribusiness Platform (GhAAP) aims to connect stakeholders in the sector, streamline resource identification, and enhance data accessibility for informed decision-making.
While celebrating these achievements, Dr Bryan Acheampong called for ongoing vigilance and adaptability to tackle the long-term challenges posed by climate change. A draft Long-Term Climate Resilient Agricultural Development Strategy for Ghana (2025-2050) is being developed to reinforce the country’s dedication to sustainable agricultural practices.
The Awards Night ceremony ended with a warm tribute to the diligent farmers and fishermen, whose efforts are crucial for food security and economic growth.
