We have laid a foundation for a secure, climate-resilient agricultural future – Akufo-Addo

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has explained his achievements in Ghana's agricultural sector, which he described as "unprecedented" in their scale and impact.Addressing an audience of farmers, agricultural stakeholders, and policymakers during the celebration of the 40th National Farmers' Day on Friday, 8th November 2024, President Akufo-Addo emphasised the critical steps taken since 2017 to transform Ghana's agriculture into a dynamic, resilient, and productive sector capable of addressing modern challenges, particularly those posed by climate change.He noted that his administration has prioritized the well-being of farmers and fisherfolk, recognizing them as the backbone of Ghana's economy. "Your well-being is Ghana's strength," he said, adding that the government's efforts have been guided by a commitment to food security, wealth creation, and job provision.

This vision took shape through the Programme for Planting for Food and Jobs (PFJ), launched in 2017, with the goal of modernizing and revitalizing agriculture to meet 21st-century demands."Our objectives were ambitious," he acknowledged, "to achieve food security, promote import substitution, create wealth, and provide jobs, especially for our youth."Under PFJ, the government introduced subsidies for essential inputs like seeds and fertilizers, significantly easing access for farmers nationwide, he said.

This initiative included five core modules: Food Crops; Planting for Exports and Rural Development (PERD); Livestock; Mechanisation; and Greenhouse Horticulture.President Akufo-Addo explained that these modules were aimed not only at increasing food production but also at enhancing Ghana's export value and creating sustainable jobs.

In August 2023, PFJ was expanded into PFJ 2.0, representing a shift from traditional subsidies to an agricultural input credit system tied to market arrangements, a move designed to foster resilience and sustainability within the sector.Showcasing the success of PFJ with data, the president said between 2017 and 2023, agricultural GDP growth rose from 2.7% to an impressive 5.7%.