Deputy Minister of Agriculture, John Dumelo, says the government’s new direction for the sector is clear and intentional, with a focus on placing value first and waste last as Ghana pursues an industry-led agricultural transformation.
Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, he explained that the theme for this year’s National Farmers’ Day was chosen to reflect a broader national vision.
“Well, the theme was selected because, basically, we launched the Feed Ghana Programme this April in Techiman. The Programme encompasses everything that we want to do as a country in terms of agriculture,” he said.
He emphasized that the priority is simple but urgent: “The most important thing is feeding ourselves, feeding the industry, and then exporting the rest.”
According to him, if Ghana seeks stronger gains from the sector, industry must be placed at the centre of the agenda.
“But feeding the industry is also very critical, because we need to add value to whatever it is that we produce.”
Mr. Dumelo noted that value addition is not only about generating profit but also about reducing losses for farmers.
“Adding value to whatever we produce would reduce post-harvest losses, which we are trying very hard to tackle,” he stated.
He linked this direction to recent developments in the market.
“Recently, with the glut issue, I think there was just an abundance of food for some reason.” He said the situation should push the country to process more and waste less.
The Deputy Minister believes the path is set and the momentum is positive.
“And so now the main focus is processing, feeding the industry, and then exporting the rest. And I think everything is on course.”
John Dumelo stressed that the Feed Ghana Programme represents a bold shift aimed at turning raw produce into value, protecting farmers from losses, and ensuring the sector feeds local industries before serving export markets.
READ ALSO:
