Rice farmers say they are yet to benefit from the second phase of the Planting for Food and Jobs Programme.

In an interview with JoyBusiness, the President of the Ghana Rice Inter-Professional Body (GRIB) Nana Adjei Ayeh, II bemoaned the lack of support from government, especially in the roll out of the programme.

He pointed out that although the policy has a good outlook, many rice farmers are yet to experience practical outcomes.

“We saw a very good programme, the PFJ (Planting for Food and Jobs) 2.0. I don't know if it has been implemented. I'm a farmer, and most of my farmers haven't seen anything from the PFJ 2.0.  We are yet to see.” he added.

He furthered that while the programme is nearing completion, farmers are still expectant of a positive outcome.

“It looks good on paper. Let's see practically how PFJ 2.0 is going to work for the farmers, we are waiting to see.”

Nana Ayeh II made this known at a signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ghana Rice Inter-Professional Body and agro-input company, Calli Ghana to assist rice farmers with support schemes.

He also called for private sector led partnerships to support local rice producers by way of input supplies, agronomic support and cheap capital.

Christmas expectation

Ahead of the Christmas season, the Ghana Rice Inter-Professional Body is confident that patronage of locally produced rice will soar.

Nana Ayeh II appealed to the public to prioritize locally produced rice over imported brands to boost the country’s local production and improve the economy.

Despite being a staple food in Ghana, the reliance on the rice imports remains very high.

Factors such as outdated farming techniques, lack of improved seeds, limited access to modern agricultural technology and insufficient irrigation systems have contributed to the predicament.

On the partnership with Calli Ghana, rice farmers are expected to receive agrochemicals, improved seeds and extension services aimed at boosting rice yields across the country.