The National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) says it requires at least GH¢770 million to effectively manage the ongoing food glut affecting farmers across Ghana.
Although the company expects an allocation of GH¢200 million in the 2026 national budget, Chief Executive Officer George Abradu-Otoo described the amount as insufficient.
Speaking to the media, Mr. Abradu-Otoo said the situation highlights long-standing funding challenges within NAFCO, noting that the agency has never received dedicated financial support to purchase surplus produce directly from farmers.
“Initially, we were given GH¢100 million. The minister recently informed me that an additional GH¢100 million was added. I hear in the next budget, there’s an expected GH¢200 million. It’s like a drop in the ocean, but I am happy because this is the first time this is happening,” he said.
He added that NAFCO has already deployed its contracted agents to farming communities to buy surplus food items for storage in its warehouses.
“For many years, no government gave Buffer Stock money to go out to the field and mop up the excess produce. This is the beginning. The amount I requested is far higher than what we have received, but I am steadfast that this is a modest start. We are in the field now, and very soon the noise will go down. Initially, we requested GH¢770 million minimally, but so far we have received GH¢100 million,” Mr. Abradu-Otoo explained.
His comments come amid increasing reports of food surpluses in major farming areas, where many farmers struggle to sell their produce due to limited market access.
ALSO READ: