Ghana is set to launch the Ghana Food Brigade before the end of December as part of a major push to improve agricultural productivity and food security, the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has announced.

The government will also recruit 10,000 young people into a special four-year national service programme dedicated to agriculture.

Each year, a portion of these recruits will be absorbed permanently into the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to strengthen agricultural extension services and provide ongoing support to farmers across the country.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, November 24, Mr Opoku explained that the initiative is designed to build a skilled agricultural workforce and better equip the sector for long-term stability.

“It is our hope that the Ghana Food Brigade will be launched before the end of December this year.”

He added that the youth recruitment plan is central to improving extension delivery nationwide.

“In addition 10,000 youth are being enrolled on the national service scheme under a four-year programme.

“Each year, a portion of this youth will be retained as permanent ministry staff to augment agricultural extension delivery.”

The Ghana Food Brigade is expected to serve as a key vehicle for promoting national food security, modernising agricultural practices, and ensuring that farmers receive consistent technical support.

The initiatives form part of the government’s broader strategy to modernise agriculture, improve productivity, and build a sustainable workforce committed to supporting Ghana’s long-term agricultural development.