Government doing well with the Planting for food and jobs - Dr. Ibn Chambas

The office of Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel has commended Ghana government for the implementation of flagship program; Planting for Food and Jobs.

According to Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas, despite teething problems Ghana government is facing in the implementation, it is still highly possible for government to overcome it.

He made the observation when he paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Food and Jobs, Hon. Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, while commending the Minister for spearheading a number of policy initiatives which he said had completely changed the face of Agriculture in the country.

Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas explains the production of rice and soyabean, which constitute the biggest import of food commodities in the country, will significantly cut down on importation of rice and other food commodities into the country.

He revealed his office is ever ready to provide all necessary support and assistance to Ghana to achieve its aim especially in the area of agriculture.

Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto said, Ghana in an interim, is looking at cutting down on the importation of rice by 50% by the end of 2020 and also ensure its total ban within the next four years.

According to the Agric Minister, farmers are being empowered with the provision of quality improved seeds, fertilizers, as well as extension services under the programme.

He also indicated that other challenges such as processing, quality and post-harvest losses were being addressed through the mechanization being implemented by the Ministry.