In a move to reduce imports and ensure Ghana is self-sufficient in basic staples, flagbearer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has promised to launch a programme inspired by the successful “Operation Feed Yourself and Industries” initiative.
The former President and leader of the opposition NDC at a durbar with the chiefs and people of Pusiga, mentioned that, although majority of Ghanaians are into farming, the Ghanaian economy is import dependent adding that food products alone account for almost $3bn every year of the country’s import bill.
This according to John Mahama is disturbing since most of the food products can be produced in large quantities to feed citizens and export to other countries given the right support from government.
Setting out policies his government would embark on when voted into power come December 7, Mr. Mahama noted that, the next NDC administration will establish special agro-industrial zones in all sixteen regions, focusing on adding value to local crops they have a comparative advantage in producing.
“Our policies aim to boost the agricultural sector and enhance food security across the country with focus on exports and reduce reliance on raw material imports, ultimately strengthening our economy. God has blessed with the land, with sunshine and water to be able to produce ourselves. So we are coming to assist you the farmers to produce and feed ourselves”, Mr. Mahama said.
He added that, the policies aimed at boosting the agricultural sector will also see the establishment of nationwide farmer service centres to provide farmers with the technology, equipment, inputs, and opportunities to improve food security and drive economic growth.
Additional, the NDC according to its flagbearer will launch a programme inspired by the successful “Operation Feed Yourself and Industries” initiative of the early 1970s focused on making Ghana self-sufficient in basic staples such as onions, tomatoes, maize, etc.
“When we vote for the badly needed change in the December election, Naana Jane and I will lead a government that will work with you, the people of Ghana, to build a more prosperous and food-secure future for Ghana”, he stressed.
