The Greater Accra Poultry Farmers Association says processing gaps, not just middlemen, drive local chicken prices in Ghana. The Association cites inadequate processing facilities as a major factor.
Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, recently blamed middlemen for the high cost of local chicken.
The price of local chicken can rise from GHS 80 to GHS 200 by the time it reaches consumers. Poultry traders in Accra say inadequate supply also contributes to the high cost. The Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Accra Poultry Farmers Association, Mohammed Ali, calls on the government to establish more processing plants.
Mr Ali questions the location of the ongoing poultry processing plant in Bechem, arguing that its distance from poultry farms in southern Ghana could increase transportation and processing costs. Robert Ayamdo, a poultry businessman, says increasing local production and promoting Ghanaian chicken could encourage more consumers to choose it over imports.
The Association says expanding local processing capacity is necessary to improve access to locally produced chicken, reduce costs, and make the industry more competitive against imports. Some consumers continue to patronise locally produced chicken despite its higher price, with layers selling for GHS 170 and GHS 150, compared to imported chicken at GHS 100 and GHS 120.
Ghana's poultry industry is significant, with the Greater Accra Poultry Farmers Association having members across nine regions. The industry's growth and development are crucial for the country's economy and food security. The government's efforts to promote local poultry consumption and reduce reliance on imports are underway, but more needs to be done to address the processing gaps and supply chain issues.
Experts say that addressing these issues will require investment in processing infrastructure, as well as support for farmers and traders to increase production and improve efficiency. The government's plan to establish more processing plants is a step in the right direction, but its implementation and impact will be critical to the industry's success.