Chief Technical advisor at the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Asante Krobea has reiterated that the flagship agricultural programme, ‘Planting for Food and Jobs’ launched by President Akufo-Addo yesterday [Wednesday] will not fail but inure to the benefits of every Ghanaian.
Speaking to Rainbow Radio 87.5Fm, he said a total of 100,000 out of the 200, 000 farmers expected for the pilot have been selected. He added, ‘’we are in the implementation stage now.’’
Mr. Asante indicated, it is our expectation that the remaining 100,000 would soon be registered for the project.
The programme, is expected to modernize agriculture, improve production, achieve food security and make Ghana more self-sufficient, whilst creating jobs for the youth.
Launching the programme yesterday, the president said, the policy “is anchored on the pillars that will transform Ghana’s agriculture; the provision of improved seeds, the supply of fertilizers, the provision of dedicated extension services and marketing strategy.
The initiative is expected to increase the production of maize by 30%, rice by 49%, soybean by 25% and sorghum by 28% for current production levels.
Government he explained will roll out policies to help develop the sector. This government is committed and will do all possible to modernize agriculture, improve production efficiency, achieve food security, and profitability for farmers. Agriculture is the backbone of our economy and so, it is not a misplaced priority to invest heavily in it.
Investing heavily in agriculture will ensure food security and job creation, he stressed.
The Planting for Food and Jobs is expected to be rolled out in all 216 districts across the country, and will involve the supply of farm resources such as high yielding and improved seedlings to participating farmers.
The programme, according to the government, would also motivate farmers to grow staple foods such as maize, millet, and beans.
Interested farmers are to be provided with free seedlings among other agricultural inputs and agro-chemicals such as fertilizer at reduced prices. It is expected to create 750,000 jobs especially the youth.
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