Ghana has secured $81.92 million from the World Bank under the Food System Resilience Programme to enhance food security and support farmers in drought-affected regions, particularly in the northern parts of the country. The funding will be used to procure essential agricultural inputs, including fertilizers and seeds, to strengthen crop production and ensure national food stability.
Allocation of Funds for Fertilizers and Seeds
According to the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, the funding will cover:
-
117,188 tonnes of fertilizers (NPK and urea) worth $75 million
-
3,266.5 tonnes of rice and maize seeds valued at $6.9 million
These inputs aim to assist farmers in drought-prone regions in maintaining consistent agricultural production despite climatic challenges.
Addressing Drought Challenges in Northern Ghana
While fertilizers and seeds are essential for crop production, Mr. Opoku emphasized that they cannot directly reduce drought. To mitigate drought effects, the government has invested in irrigation infrastructure, including:
-
Solar-powered boreholes for year-round farming
-
Construction of new dams and rehabilitation of existing water bodies
These interventions aim to support sustainable agriculture and prevent food shortages caused by erratic rainfall.
Ensuring Food Security Amid Global Challenges
Food security in Ghana is measured by availability, access, utilization, and stability. Mr. Opoku highlighted that the government has resourced the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) to procure excess grains for storage. This strategy ensures that the country maintains adequate food reserves for three to six months, in line with international standards for strategic grain reserves.
In the 2026 Budget, the government has further committed funds to NAFCO to continue storing grains, ensuring revenue for farmers and preparedness against potential food crises.
