New Patriotic Party (NPP) Presidential Candidate for the 2028 elections, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has expressed concern about the difficulties Ghanaian farmers are facing in selling their produce, even when they reduce their prices.
Dr. Bawumia described the situation as unacceptable and said a government led by him would introduce major reforms to support local farmers and strengthen Ghana’s food security.
He made the remarks on Friday when he met with the leadership of the National Seed Trade Association of Ghana (NASTAG) in Accra as part of his consultations with stakeholders.
NASTAG, which represents certified private seed producers, told the former Vice President that Ghana’s food security was facing serious challenges. The group said the country currently imports about 90 per cent of its vegetable seeds.
The association also raised concerns about the large amount of imported food products entering the local market. According to them, this has made it difficult for local farmers to sell crops such as maize, rice and soybeans, even when they offer them at lower prices.
NASTAG also highlighted problems with the National Seed Policy, concerns over what it described as the involvement of ” political seed merchants” in public seed procurement, as well as infrastructure challenges.
In response, Dr. Bawumia said he sympathised with farmers and was particularly concerned that farmers could produce enough food but still struggle to find buyers.
“It is really troubling and unacceptable that we have a situation where farmers cannot sell their produce after investing and putting in so much effort. This is not only a disincentive to farmers, but it also negatively impacts agriculture,” Dr. Bawumia said.
He said agriculture was essential to Ghana’s development and promised to increase investment in research and the transformation of the sector, with a strong focus on protecting farmers.
“I am very committed to agriculture. It is the key to our development, and we must put in the resources to help grow the sector. We have to benefit from what is happening in other countries, learn what research has worked in our environment, and be prepared to invest in it,” he said.
Dr. Bawumia thanked the leadership of NASTAG for openly sharing their concerns and said his team would continue engaging the association to find practical ways to address the challenges facing farmers and the agriculture sector.
