President John Mahama is set to launch one of his government’s flagship initiatives, the 'Nkoko Nkitinkiti' programme, in the Ashanti Regional capital, Kumasi.

The project, which forms part of the broader Feed Ghana Programme, aims to promote local poultry production, create jobs, and reduce Ghana’s dependence on imported chicken.

According to the National Feed Ghana Coordinator, Bright Kwadzo Demordzi, the initiative will provide selected beneficiaries with free birds and feed to start or expand their poultry farms.

He explained that interested persons must visit their District Agriculture Directorate to pick up registration forms before officials carry out an inspection to confirm eligibility.

However, Mr Demordzi said that not everyone will qualify for the support.

“Each constituency across the country will benefit from about 10,000 birds.

“However, the selection of beneficiaries depends on the Animal Production Directorate. They will visit your environment to see where you intend to keep the birds, because it is very important. Maybe where you are, there’s no space where you can keep them, that means you are not qualified.”

He added that the main goal is to ensure that recipients can properly care for the birds.

“If you are in an environment that is comfortable for the birds, then you will be given. It’s not just about giving out birds; you must be able to take care of them to benefit.

"These birds are not to be returned. When it is given to you, it is yours forever. You can do anything with it after taking good care of it,” he explained.

Mr Demordzi also said that both broilers and layers will be distributed under the project. He said the Ministry of Food and Agriculture is responsible for ensuring that all birds given out receive proper care and management support.

He further advised that applicants without suitable spaces should expect to be disqualified.

“You have to go to the district director of agriculture in your area,” he said.

“Their officers will come and inspect your environment. If it’s conducive for the birds, they will give you a form to fill out. The form helps us record your details and location so that if there are problems with the birds, we can quickly locate you and offer technical advice.”

Earlier this year, President Mahama revealed that the first processing plant under the 'Nkoko Nkitinkiti' project was in the procurement stage, with construction expected to begin soon.

Mr Demordzi has now confirmed that the procurement phase has been completed, paving the way for the President to officially cut the sod for construction to commence.