The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA), in a bid to bolster Ghana’s agricultural sector, has organized a durbar to enlighten stakeholders on the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ) initiative.
Held at the City Hall, the event gathered Heads of Departments from the Assembly, agricultural sector workers, and other relevant parties, aiming to disseminate crucial information about the new phase of PFJ.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of AMA, Hon. Elizabeth K.T. Sackey, represented by the Director of Administration at the AMA, highlighted the significant achievements of PFJ since its launch in 2017.
“Phase I had a remarkable impact on Ghana’s agricultural sector, significantly increasing fertilizer application rates, distributing certified seeds, and enhancing extension services through the recruitment of 2,700 Agricultural Extension Agents in 2018.
“[It expanded] mechanization services, increasing the land under irrigation, boosting the production of staple commodities such as maize, rice, and cassava, and raising the value of non-traditional agricultural exports.”
Hon. Elizabeth K.T. Sackey, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of AMA
The AMA CEO outlined the ambitious goals of PFJ 2.0, aimed at enhancing access to inputs, improving productivity, stabilizing food prices, fostering commercial agriculture, and strengthening the nation’s food security and resilience.
Unlike the previous phase, PFJ 2.0 will employ an innovative input credit model, replacing the traditional input subsidy system. This model is designed to ensure better access to agricultural inputs and create a more sustainable and resilient agricultural economy.
Hon. Sackey emphasized the crucial role of PFJ 2.0 in transforming Ghana’s agricultural landscape. She acknowledged the dedication of farmers, the support from development partners, and the government’s leadership in prioritizing agriculture.
Hon. Sackey’s optimism about the positive impact of PFJ 2.0 on Ghana’s agricultural sector was clear, as she stressed the importance of nurturing this initiative to develop sustainable and resilient food systems.
Stakeholder Reactions and Support
In a detailed presentation, the Director of Agriculture at the AMA, Mr. Kodwo Ennin Fynn, provided updates on the program since its launch by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo in August 2023.
Mr. Fynn highlighted the progress made so far and outlined the objectives for the new phase. His presentation showcased the strides taken to ensure the program’s success and the strategic goals aimed at further enhancing the agricultural sector.
The stakeholders present at the durbar expressed their support for the new phase of the PFJ initiative. They recognized the efforts made in Phase I and appreciated the introduction of new strategies in Phase II. Agricultural sector workers were particularly optimistic about the potential improvements in productivity and food security.
Several Heads of Departments also shared their thoughts on the new initiative. They emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts and continuous support from all parties involved. The introduction of new technologies and methods was seen as a positive step towards modernizing Ghana’s agriculture and making it more competitive on the global stage.
The PFJ 2.0 initiative represents a significant step forward in Ghana’s agricultural policy. With its focus on increasing productivity, stabilizing food prices, and fostering commercial agriculture, it aims to address some of the critical challenges faced by the agricultural sector.
The innovative input credit model is expected to provide farmers with better access to necessary inputs, thereby enhancing their productivity and income.
The event concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to actively participate in and support the PFJ 2.0 initiative.
Hon. Sackey reiterated the government’s commitment to agriculture and its role in national development. She urged farmers and agricultural workers to embrace the new technologies and methods introduced in Phase II to ensure the program’s success.
With the promising achievements of Phase I and the innovative strategies introduced in Phase II, there is a renewed sense of optimism and commitment towards transforming Ghana’s agricultural landscape.
The collaborative efforts of farmers, government, and development partners are expected to drive the success of PFJ 2.0, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and resilient food system in Ghana.
READ ALSO: Frustrated Kenyan Youth To Hit The Streets In Another Mass Protest
