George Abradu-Otoo, Chief Executive of the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO), has pledged continued support to the Dagbon Kingdom. This commitment was made during a condolence visit to the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi on August 10, 2026. Mr. Abradu-Otoo paid tribute to the late King of Dagbon, Ya-Na Mahama Abukari II, describing him as a great man who significantly contributed to humanity.
The NAFCO CEO's visit was part of a two-day working tour of the Northern Region. He emphasized NAFCO's ongoing dedication to the development of northern Ghana, a region critical for national food security. The company has previously supported the reconstruction of the Gbewaa Palace, a key cultural and administrative center for the Dagbon people.
This pledge aligns with broader government efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and food reserves across Ghana. NAFCO, a state-owned enterprise, plays a crucial role in stabilizing food prices and ensuring food availability through its buffer stock operations. The company's focus on the Northern Region underscores the region's importance as a major food basket for the country, contributing significantly to Ghana's agricultural output.
Mr. Abradu-Otoo assured the newly installed Regent, Kpampakuya Naa Yakubu Abukari, of NAFCO's unwavering support. He stated, “I am here today, on behalf of our board, management and staff to let the Regent know that the same support we offered to our grandfather we would extend the same support to him.” This statement highlights a continuity of partnership between NAFCO and the Dagbon traditional leadership.
The continued support from NAFCO is expected to bolster agricultural initiatives and food security programs within the Dagbon Kingdom. This will likely involve further investments in warehouse rehabilitation and other infrastructure vital for food storage and distribution. Decision-makers and local communities will closely watch how these pledges translate into tangible projects and economic benefits for the region.
NAFCO's presence in the Northern Region is vital for the implementation of the government's 'Planting for Food and Jobs' program, which aims to boost agricultural production. By strengthening its infrastructure, NAFCO helps farmers reduce post-harvest losses and ensures a stable supply of food commodities. This stability is crucial for managing inflation and supporting livelihoods in agricultural communities.
The visit also included inspections of rehabilitation works on NAFCO warehouses in the region. These infrastructure improvements are critical for expanding Ghana's national food reserves, which are essential for mitigating the impact of food price volatility. Enhanced storage capacity allows NAFCO to purchase more produce from local farmers, providing them with a reliable market for their goods.
Accompanying Mr. Abradu-Otoo were key NAFCO officials, including Emmanuel J.K Arthur, Head of Corporate Affairs; Arnold Akah, Head of Operations; Aziz Peregrino-Brimah, National Coordinator of the National Food Reserve; James Tieku Apawu, Northern Zone Manager; and Awudu Sualisu Mohammed, Northern Regional Manager. This delegation underscores the institutional commitment behind the pledge.
The Regent, Kpampakuya Naa Yakubu Abukari, expressed gratitude to the NAFCO delegation for their visit and expression of solidarity. Such engagements between state institutions and traditional authorities are important for fostering development and maintaining social cohesion in Ghana. They ensure that national policies are implemented with local context and support.
NAFCO's ongoing commitment to the Dagbon Kingdom and the broader Northern Region is a significant factor in Ghana's food security strategy. It demonstrates a sustained effort to build resilience in the agricultural sector and support the economic well-being of farming communities. The impact of these efforts will be crucial for the region's development in the coming years.