The Minority in Parliament has expressed deep concern over the mounting challenges facing Ghanaian farmers and fishers, warning that rising production costs and logistical barriers are eroding competitiveness and threatening livelihoods.
In a statement released on Friday, December 5, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin highlighted the financial pressures on rural producers despite a slight drop in fertiliser prices in 2024.
Farmers in remote areas continue to face poor road networks, storage delays, and limited access to credit, while fishers are contending with soaring costs of nets, outboard motors, and the chronic non-supply of premix fuel, particularly in coastal communities like Keta.
“Ghana still imports between US$3.5 billion and US$4.5 billion worth of food annually, including significant volumes of poultry and fish, even as our farmers and fishers struggle to produce enough for local consumption. This is an unsustainable situation for a nation blessed with fertile land, abundant waters, and hardworking agricultural and fishing communities,” the statement said.
The Minority called on the government to urgently invest in modern farming and aquaculture technologies, including mechanisation, AI-driven monitoring tools, and precision agriculture techniques, as well as critical infrastructure such as irrigation systems, storage facilities, landing sites, cold chains, and roads to reduce post-harvest losses.
Mr. Afenyo-Markin further emphasised that without bold policy interventions and financial support, Ghana risks continued dependency on imports, while its own producers face declining productivity and incomes.
“Our farmers and fishers deserve more than symbolic gestures. They need tangible support to thrive, secure their livelihoods, and strengthen national food security,” he concluded.