Agric Minister Urges Ghanaians to Embrace Backyard Farming for Food Security

 Agric Minister Urges Ghanaians to Embrace Backyard Farming for Food Security

Story by: Mary Bempah


Accra, Ghana – The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Hon. Eric Opoku, has called on Ghanaians to adopt backyard farming as part of efforts to enhance food security and promote sustainable agriculture. He made the appeal during the commemoration of the 45th World Food Day and the 80th Anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).


Speaking at the event, Hon. Opoku explained that the FAO was founded 80 years ago after the devastation of the World Wars, with a mission to eliminate global hunger and starvation. Ghana, he said, was proud to join the rest of the world in marking both milestones under the theme “Hand in Hand for Better Food for a Better Future.”


He encouraged citizens to cultivate simple vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, onions, and garden eggs in their homes to reduce household food expenses and support the nation’s quest for food self-sufficiency.


The Minister also urged schools, security services, and other institutions to establish small farms within their premises. According to him, such initiatives will prevent food shortages and promote agricultural engagement across all sectors.


“God has blessed our country with everything we need—land, water, and energetic youth. All we need is unity to work together so we can produce enough food for our people,” he stated.


Hon. Opoku noted that the government’s continued efforts and increased awareness of farming have led to improved local production. He revealed that a bag of maize currently sells at GH¢300, but farmers can earn more by selling to the National Buffer Stock Company, which offers GH¢450 per bag. Similarly, 50kg bags of rice and gari will be purchased at GH¢625 each.


He further disclosed that President John Dramani Mahama is committed to supporting farmers who achieved bumper harvests this season, assuring them of continued government assistance to boost productivity.


The Minister also announced plans to establish cold storage facilities to preserve perishable crops like cassava and other food items to minimize post-harvest losses. 



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