The Ministry for Food and Agriculture (MOFA) is gearing up for the second phase of the Government’s flagship program, Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ), with a focus on bolstering food security in Ghana.
Mr. Tanko Bagbara, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) for MOFA, recently announced the initiation of procurement processes, a pivotal step to ensure the success of PFJ Phase II. “We have begun procuring the services of aggregators and inputs dealers,” stated Mr. Tanko Bagbara, shedding light on the proactive approach adopted by MOFA.
This move is a testament to the commitment of the ministry to fortify Ghana’s agricultural landscape and enhance food production capabilities.
A significant development in PFJ Phase II is the inclusion of eleven additional commodities, augmenting the initial focus on poultry. This expansion aims to supply 4.5 million day-old chicks to out-growers by the year’s end, marking a substantial leap towards revitalizing the poultry sector.
Established poultry farmers such as Darko Farms and Boris BOB are set to play a pivotal role as anchor farmers, extending the benefits of the program to farmers under their purview. This collaborative approach seeks not only to meet short-term goals but also to lay the groundwork for sustained growth in the agricultural sector.
Mr. Tanko elaborated on the strategy, stating, “When they benefit from the facility, they will intend to give it to the farmers under them to expand production, and gradually we are going to expand and revive all the collapsed poultry sector.”
This cascading effect is designed to create a ripple of positive impact, fostering growth at multiple levels of the agricultural supply chain.
One notable advantage highlighted by Mr. Tanko is the resilience of poultry farming to weather conditions. Unlike certain agricultural endeavors dependent on favorable weather patterns, poultry production remains largely unaffected, offering a more reliable and consistent output.
Layer of Stability to the Supply Chain
This characteristic adds a layer of stability to the supply chain, positioning poultry as a strategic component in Ghana’s quest for food security.
To further enhance support for farmers, MOFA is planning to establish specific zones where farmers can seek assistance. This regional approach recognizes the diverse challenges faced by farmers in different areas, allowing for targeted and tailored support.
By creating these hubs of agricultural assistance, MOFA aims to empower farmers with the knowledge and resources needed to optimize their production.
In a nod to modernization, MOFA is in the process of introducing an electronic platform designed for tracking and monitoring activities related to PFJ Phase Two. This tech-driven approach aligns with global trends in agriculture, ensuring transparency and accountability in the allocation of resources.
The electronic platform will serve as a comprehensive tool for assessing the impact of the program, identifying areas for improvement, and ultimately enhancing the overall efficiency of PFJ Phase II.
Ghana’s PFJ Phase II is not just a short-term intervention; it’s a comprehensive strategy with ambitious targets. The five-year program aims to increase self-sufficiency from the current five percent to seven percent by the end of 2023, with a significant leap to 13 percent in 2024.
The ultimate goal Is an impressive 110.6 percent self-sufficiency by 2028. This roadmap underscores Ghana’s commitment to not only addressing immediate food needs but also building a resilient and self-sustaining agricultural sector.
As MOFA’s procurement processes gain momentum, Ghana is set for a transformative journey towards agricultural self-sufficiency. The strategic inclusion of additional commodities, collaborative partnerships with established farmers, and the integration of technology showcase the nation’s dedication to shaping a robust and sustainable future for its agricultural sector under PFJ Phase II.
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