Following the launch of the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs programme, the government has called on traditional authorities nationwide to help expand the reach of the programme.
The Ministry of Information, in a statement dated September 8, 2023, mentioned that “President Akufo-Addo will on Saturday engage with members of the National House of Chiefs as part of efforts to make large tracts of land available for farming”.
The statement continued that “the President expects that the support of the Chiefs will further enhance efforts to make the programme successful. With about 80% of Ghana’s land being customary ownership by chiefs and families, it is acknowledged that chiefs have the power to allocate, lease, or sell land for various purposes”.
“Planting for Food and Jobs,” one of the government’s flagship programme that focuses on promoting food self-sufficiency, increasing agricultural productivity, and creating employment opportunities in the agricultural sector.
It also focuses on providing support to farmers through the distribution of improved seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs, as well as offering extension services and market access. It is designed to enhance food production, reduce food imports, and ultimately improve food security and the livelihoods of Ghanaian farmers.
Phase Two of the programme was launched at the University for Development Studies on Monday, August 28, 2023.
This is designed to build upon the achievements of the first phase. It is a five-year master plan aimed at transforming agriculture in Ghana, with a primary focus on modernization.
This modernization will be achieved through the development of specific commodity value chains and the active involvement of the private sector.
The first phase of the “Planting for Food and Jobs” programme was launched by President Akufo-Addo on April 19, 2017, in Goaso, Ahafo region.