SEND Ghana and its partners have urged the government to speed up the delivery of farm supplies for the Feed Ghana Programme. Many farmers have not yet received seeds and fertilizers as the planting season starts. This delay could hurt food production and national food security.
The organisation's checks reveal that most local government offices have not received the necessary farming materials. This stops them from giving these items to farmers. SEND Ghana’s members have spoken with farmers in the Northern, Oti, Volta, and Bono East regions. These farmers are waiting for the supplies.
The Feed Ghana Programme, launched in April last year, aims to increase local food production and create jobs. It aims to reduce Ghana's reliance on imported food. The programme focuses on practical farming methods. It also supports growing vegetables, grains, and other crops to replace imports. The goal is self-reliance and a stronger food system.
SEND Ghana stated that delays in distributing inputs could derail the government's plans. The group, which supports vulnerable people in health and farming, noted farmer concerns. Some farmers are hesitant to plant on a large scale this year. They lost money in the last farming season. SEND Ghana asked the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA) to quickly release and distribute the inputs. This will help farmers use the current rains for planting.
The organisation also asked MoFA to prioritize young people, especially young women. This aligns with the Feed Ghana Programme's goals to tackle youth unemployment. Government should also share more information about the programme. Regular updates on its progress are needed. SEND Ghana believes involving young people in farming will improve lives. It will also help the country's agriculture sector in the long run.
The programme has potential to improve food security and lower food prices. It can create jobs for young people and women. It could also promote food processing and exports. Success depends on good local farming management. It also requires timely actions. Without these, the government may miss its targets. Public money could be wasted.
The Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) predicts normal to late rains in Northern Ghana. Some areas like Bole and Salaga might see early rains. Rainfall from May to September is expected to be below normal to near normal in much of northern Ghana. Southern coastal areas may see normal to above-normal rainfall. The northern sector could get 450mm to 700mm of rain.
GMet warns of dry spells lasting 10 to 18 days in some areas. This could affect crops in the Upper East, Upper West, and Transition zones. Rain may stop early in most northern areas. GMet advises preparation for dry spells. Farmers in 11 towns including Sunyani, Dunkwa, and Ho should expect late rains. They should wait for steady rainfall before planting.
Below-normal rain is expected from March to May in Dormaa, Sunyani, Accra, and Tema. This raises the risk of plants not getting enough water. Two dry spells are expected. One from March to April and another from May to June. These could harm crops and water sources. GMet suggests using fast-growing, drought-tolerant crops.