A Ghanaian based in the United States, Anthony Adu Atta, has called on the government to intensify its support for farmers and ensure the effective implementation of agricultural initiatives.

Speaking during a virtual address to agricultural stakeholders, Mr Adu Atta highlighted critical issues affecting the farming sector, including the relationship between farmers and large supermarket chains, the inefficiencies in government programmes, and the pressing need for transparency and accountability.

Mr Adu Atta underscored the significant role played by the collaboration between farmers and large supermarket chains such as Tesco, Asda, and Aldi in Ghana's agricultural supply chain. He explained that these partnerships create a mutually beneficial arrangement where farmers gain access to a broad market for their products, while supermarkets efficiently source and distribute fresh produce through their nationwide networks.

Despite these benefits, Mr Adu Atta expressed concerns over the pricing dynamics in these partnerships, which he noted could be a source of dissatisfaction for farmers. “While this relationship generally benefits both parties, pricing fairness and sustainability remain key concerns. Farmers need to be assured that they are receiving fair compensation for their hard work,” he said.

Mr Adu Atta also addressed the challenges surrounding key government initiatives designed to support farmers. He expressed skepticism about the implementation of flagship programmes such as the One District, One Factory initiative and the One Village, One Dam project, both of which were intended to transform rural economies and boost agricultural productivity.

Highlighting the potential of the One District, One Factory initiative, Mr Adu Atta remarked that its success depends on its ability to create a robust value chain for agricultural products. “This programme could be a game-changer for farmers if implemented effectively. Factories that process agricultural produce would provide ready markets for farmers and reduce post-harvest losses,” he noted. However, he questioned the initiative’s impact so far, citing a lack of visible results.

On the One Village, One Dam project, Mr Adu Atta expressed disappointment over its lack of tangible progress. “This project was supposed to provide critical irrigation infrastructure for farmers, particularly in the northern parts of Ghana. However, what we see on the ground does not reflect the promises made,” he lamented.

Mr Adu Atta emphasized that the government’s current efforts to support farmers seem insufficient and often lack sincerity. He called for a shift from mere rhetoric to concrete actions that deliver real benefits to farmers and rural communities. “The disconnect between what is promised and what is delivered is alarming. Without genuine support and accountability, farmers will continue to struggle,” he stressed.

In his address, Mr Adu Atta urged the government to prioritize the effective and truthful implementation of agricultural support programmes. He called for increased accountability and regular assessments of projects to ensure they meet the needs of farmers. “Farmers are the backbone of our economy, and their contributions are invaluable. The government must deliver on its promises and create an environment where farmers can thrive,” he concluded.

Anthony Adu Atta’s remarks shine a spotlight on the challenges facing Ghana’s agricultural sector and the urgent need for reforms. His call for fairness in pricing, accountability in government initiatives, and genuine support for farmers echoes the sentiments of many stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

As Ghana continues to position agriculture as a driver of economic growth, it is imperative for the government to bridge the gap between policy promises and actual outcomes, only then can the farming sector reach its full potential and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.

This impassioned plea from a Ghanaian in the diaspora is a timely reminder of the importance of listening to farmers and delivering on the promises that have been made to them. It is a challenge to the government to rise to the occasion and ensure that agriculture becomes a sustainable and profitable venture for all involved.