Annoh-Dompreh Accuses Gov’t of Undermining Local Farmers

The Minority Chief Whip and Member of Parliament for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, has criticised government officials over claims that locally produced maize is unsuitable for poultry feed, describing the assertion as misleading and harmful to Ghanaian farmers.

Speaking during an engagement with farmers and traders at Atebubu-Amantin in the Bono East Region on Tuesday, he alleged that the narrative is being driven by individuals with vested interests in import businesses, particularly in the maize trade.

According to him, the claims are part of a broader effort to erode confidence in locally grown produce and justify increased imports, including from countries such as Brazil.

He maintained that Ghanaian maize remains nutritious and fit for poultry production, warning that such assertions risk damaging the agricultural sector.

His remarks come as farmers in the area report worsening conditions, with many struggling to sell produce including maize, rice, yam, and cashew. During the interaction, some farmers said prices have sharply declined, citing a drop in the cost of a bag of maize from about GH?1,600 to as low as GH?200.

They also expressed frustration over the lack of government intervention, despite reports of a GH?200 million allocation to the National Food Buffer Stock Company.

According to them, the expected purchases have not materialised, leaving large quantities of produce unsold.

Farmers further pointed to rising input costs, such as fertilisers and labour, which they say contradict official narratives of easing inflation.

Many indicated that they are increasingly dependent on middlemen who dictate prices, worsening their financial situation.

At the Atebubu market, some women traders expressed distress over the situation, accusing the government of failing to deliver on promises made ahead of the 2024 general elections.

Responding to the concerns, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh called on government to urgently release funds to support the sector and empower the Buffer Stock Company to procure local produce, stabilise prices and restore confidence among farmers.

He also encouraged the consumption of locally produced rice, highlighting its nutritional benefits over imported varieties.

According to him, Ghanaian rice retains more natural fibre compared to highly polished, imported rice, making it a healthier option for consumers.

The Atebubu engagement forms part of a nationwide tour by the Minority Caucus aimed at interacting with farmers and assessing challenges within the agricultural sector.

The group says it will continue to advocate for policies that prioritise local producers and address what it describes as critical gaps in government support.

 

 

 

For more news, join The Chronicle Newspaper channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBSs55E50UqNPvSOm2z

The post Annoh-Dompreh Accuses Gov’t of Undermining Local Farmers appeared first on The Ghanaian Chronicle.

Read Full Story