During a courtesy call on the overload of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abubakari Mahama II at his palace in Yendi on November 7, 2024, Alan Kyerematen, the presidential candidate for the Movement for Change, unveiled a groundbreaking agricultural plan to elevate Ghana’s farming sector.

Central to his vision is the creation of the Ghana United Farmers Association, an initiative designed to bring farmers together into a powerful network, enabling them to embrace large-scale mechanized farming. “Our farmers have worked tirelessly with limited resources. With the Ghana United Farmers Association, we can give them the tools they need to expand and modernize,” Alan said.

Mr Kyerematen believes that organizing farmers into a strong association is essential for facilitating access to loans, allowing them to own tractors and advanced farming equipment. This, he explained, would empower farmers to expand their acreage and significantly increase productivity. “Mechanization is the key. No farmer should still be relying on simple tools when the potential of mechanized farming could transform their livelihoods,” he emphasized.

The initiative, Alan continued, is part of his vision to transform Ghana’s five Northern Regions into the food basket for West Africa. He highlighted the importance of this approach in ensuring Ghana’s food security, while also positioning the country as a leader in agricultural production across the region. “We have the potential to feed not just ourselves but our neighbors. With the right support, Northern Ghana can be West Africa’s breadbasket,” he asserted.

In addition to loans, Alan committed to providing farmers with improved seed varieties and organic fertilizer, which he said would enhance yields and improve soil health. The use of organic fertilizers, he noted, would be a shift from chemical fertilizers, which he believes have adverse effects on soil quality. “Our soil has suffered enough from chemical fertilizers. With organic options, we will see better yields and long-term health for our farmland,” he added.

Alan’s agricultural policy also emphasizes affordability and access. He stated that free seeds would be provided to farmers to further reduce their financial burden and increase productivity. “Access to quality seeds is a challenge for many farmers. By providing them at no cost, we are not only supporting the farmer but the future of our agriculture,” he said.

Highlighting infrastructure as another key factor, Alan pointed to the development of a railway from Kumasi to the Northern Region and the international airport in Tamale. He explained that these facilities would make the transportation of goods easier, opening up avenues for export and trade across West Africa. “When our farmers produce, they need a way to get their products to market. With this infrastructure, Northern Ghana will become a business hub,” he remarked.

Yaa Naa commended Alan's plan, noting its potential to transform agriculture in the North. He expressed confidence that the initiative would help improve the livelihood of farmers and bolster the region’s economy. “Our farmers have the skill, and with the right support, they will thrive. Your vision gives us hope for a prosperous future,” the Yaa Naa stated.

The visit was met with applause from community leaders and residents, who see Alan’s Ghana United Farmers Association as a much-needed solution to the challenges faced by local farmers. Alan assured them that with their support, he would make Ghana’s agriculture sector a beacon of success in Africa.