President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to reducing Ghana’s heavy dependence on imported poultry, emphasizing the need to boost local production and create jobs within the agricultural sector.
Speaking during his State of the Nation Address (SONA) on February 27, 2025, the president outlined his administration’s plans to support poultry farmers, enhance local production capacity, and cut down on the country’s reliance on foreign poultry products.
“For far too long, Ghana has depended on poultry imports to meet local demand,” Mahama stated. “My government is committed to reversing this trend by investing in local poultry farming, supporting farmers with modern facilities, and ensuring that Ghana becomes self-sufficient in poultry production.”
He highlighted that Ghana spends hundreds of millions of dollars annually on poultry imports, money that could be redirected to strengthen the local industry, create employment, and improve food security.
Mr. Mahama stated that the ‘Nkoko Nketenkete’ Programme, a key initiative in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) manifesto, is designed to revitalize Ghana’s poultry industry and create jobs for the youth.
The programme will provide stronger support for poultry farmers, ensure affordable local feed production, and expand veterinary services to improve poultry health and productivity.
Through these measures, Mahama aims to increase local poultry production, reduce imports, and strengthen the agricultural sector as a key driver of economic growth.
He assured that his administration would work closely with farmers, industry players, and stakeholders to implement policies to make locally produced poultry more competitive and affordable for Ghanaians.
“This is not just about reducing imports; it’s about creating sustainable jobs, ensuring food security, and building a stronger agricultural sector,” he emphasized.
His remarks reflect a broader strategy to boost local industries and reduce Ghana’s dependency on foreign imports, fostering economic resilience and self-sufficiency in the long run.
