President John Dramani Mahama has announced a major policy shift in the agricultural sector, directing the immediate transition from subsidised fertilisers to a completely free distribution model for the 2026 farming season.

The directive, aimed at providing a financial buffer for farmers hit by recent post-harvest losses, was unveiled during the commissioning of the nation’s first Farmer Services Centre at Takoratwene, in the Kwahu Afram Plains South District.

The facility serves as a cornerstone of the government’s 24-Hour Economy strategy, designed to industrialise the agricultural value chain.

Addressing a gathering of local farmers and traditional leaders, the President explained that the decision to waive all costs for fertilisers was a direct response to the economic hardships faced by rural producers.

“We have procured fertilisers for our farmers, which are usually sold at subsidised prices. However, this time, I have instructed the Minister of Agriculture to distribute them free of charge,” President Mahama stated.

He further emphasised the rationale behind the move: “This year, fertilisers will not be sold; this measure is intended to cushion farmers against the losses they have incurred.”

The new Farmer Services Centre is designed to operate as a comprehensive support system, moving beyond mere input supply. The hub will provide:

• Mechanised Services: Access to tractors and land preparation equipment.
• Leasing & Irrigation: Equipment rental and sustainable water management tools.
• Post-Harvest Support: Certified seeds, fertilisers, and modern storage facilities to reduce spoilage.

The President also used the platform to address the chronic transport challenges in the district, which were highlighted just 24 hours prior when a ferry engine failure left his advance team stranded on the river.

Confirming a major infrastructure breakthrough, the President announced that the long-awaited 3.6-kilometre bridge over the River Afram has officially been awarded to a contractor.

“Yesterday, my team encountered a challenge with the engine of the pontoon while travelling here, and it took the intervention of some fishermen to assist them. I had earlier promised to construct a bridge over the Afram River, and I am pleased to announce that the project has now been awarded to a contractor, with work expected to commence soon,” he revealed.

In addition to the bridge, the Adawso–Agordeke road has been integrated into the government’s flagship "Big Push" infrastructure programme. The dual projects are expected to transform the Afram Plains from a "food basket" hampered by poor logistics into a highly accessible industrial agricultural zone.

The launch marks a significant milestone in the government's efforts to stabilise food prices and create sustainable rural employment through the 24-Hour Economy framework.