Ghana’s National Farmers’ and Fishers’ Day celebrations have been overshadowed by what the Minority in Parliament described as “policy failures” that continue to undermine the livelihoods of farmers and fisherfolk across the country.
In a statement issued and signed on Friday, the Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin praised the resilience of Ghanaian farmers and fishers but highlighted significant challenges that have left many struggling with unsold produce, fuel shortages, and rising production costs.
“Today is a day to honour the strength of our farmers and fishers in spite of frustration, neglect, broken promises, and national policy failures under the current administration,” the statement said.
The Minority cited the unsold stock of over one million metric tonnes of paddy rice valued at GHC5 billion, left abandoned in warehouses across the Northern, Upper East, and North East regions, despite a government promise to purchase all locally produced rice and maize in September 2025.
Other failures
Fishing communities have also been hit hard, particularly in Keta, Volta Region, where the chronic non-supply of premix fuel has left boats docked and families without income.
“Fishermen and women of Keta and all coastal and inland fishing communities are bearing the brunt of this failure,” the Minority said, adding that illegal imports and expired food products have further undermined local markets.
Cocoa farmers, too, have been affected by illegal mining, land degradation, and price volatility, forcing some to abandon cocoa farming altogether.
Urgent intervention
The Minority called for urgent government interventions, including the immediate purchase of unsold grain, reliable distribution of premix fuel, enforcement against illegal imports, and investment in modern agricultural and aquaculture technologies such as AI-driven farming tools.
“On this National Farmers’ Day, we honour you. We celebrate you. We see your struggles. We stand with you,” the statement concluded.
Ghana celebrates Farmers’ and Fishers’ Day annually to recognize the contributions of its agricultural workforce, which plays a critical role in ensuring national food security and supporting rural economies.
