Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, has emphasised the importance of efficiency and scientific research in improving agricultural productivity in Ghana, especially in rice farming.
Speaking at the Citi Business Forum held on the theme Harnessing Agribusiness for Economic Growth: Expanding Ghana's Agribusiness Frontiers, in Accra on Thursday June 19, he shared insights from a visit to South Korea, where he studied the country's success in rice production. "I think one of the most important things about agriculture is efficiency," he said. "Recently I was in Korea to learn about how they've had their success story in rice production and it will interest you to know that they produce about six to seven tonnes per hectare while Ghana does just three to four.
And so efficiency is key… Research is important for us to maximise productivity." He further stressed the role of soil testing in ensuring appropriate use of agricultural inputs.
Dumelo explained that distributing fertilizer alone is not enough; what matters is whether the fertilizer matches the soil's needs. "Soil testing is important.
