Rice farmers in Twifo Afosua in the Twifo Atti Morkwa District say they are struggling to secure buyers for their produce, warning that they may be forced to abandon their farms if the situation does not improve.
The farmers explained that many invested heavily in rice cultivation using bank loans, but the absence of a stable market has left them under severe financial pressure.
The chief farmer of the Twifo Praso Rice Farmers Cooperative Union, Eric Offei, is calling on government to establish a dedicated Rice Board, similar to those in the cocoa and gold sectors, to help regulate prices and guarantee a ready market for farmers.
He warned that the ongoing challenges are discouraging production and affecting livelihoods, with some households already feeling the strain of mounting financial difficulties.
Meanwhile, a machine operator at Twifo Nuamakrom, Agya Yaw, said stronger investment in rice farming could help create jobs and reduce youth involvement in illegal mining and other social vices.
He stressed that boosting agriculture remains key to addressing unemployment in rural communities and strengthening local economic stability.