PFAG pushes for action on delayed grain purchases

The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has expressed deep concern over the ongoing glut in the grain value chain, which it says is inflicting severe hardship on farmers across the country.

The Association’s statement follows the Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s announcement of an additional GH₵100 million to the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) to help address the crisis.

According to PFAG, more than 200,000 metric tonnes of unsold paddy rice and maize remain from the previous farming season, while many rice farms are still unharvested.

The group warned that farmers now face serious threats from bird invasions, bushfires, and limited harvesting capacity, all of which could destroy their investments if urgent action is not taken.

While acknowledging the government’s intervention, PFAG has called for greater transparency and accountability in the use of funds.

It is demanding the immediate publication of the companies, locations, and quantities of grains procured under the initial GH₵100 million allocation.

The Association also wants clear timelines for the commencement of grain purchases under the new GH₵100 million allocation, as well as a published list of all approved Licensed Buying Companies, Millers, and Aggregators, together with their designated operational areas, to enable direct engagement with farmers.

PFAG urged the government to implement and announce these measures without delay to protect farmers’ livelihoods and investments.

It further reiterated its call for legislation requiring all state institutions, including schools, hospitals, and security services, to procure only locally produced rice and maize.

The Association also appealed for stronger border controls to prevent the smuggling of inferior rice, a temporary ban on rice imports until the situation stabilises, and a coordinated public campaign led by relevant ministries and stakeholders to promote the consumption of locally produced rice.