Dr. Peter Boamah Otokunor, an Agricultural Economist and member of the NDC Manifesto Committee, has called for urgent reforms in Ghana’s agriculture policy framework.
Speaking on “The Agric Manifesto,” he highlighted critical issues affecting the sector, including production challenges, input distribution inefficiencies, and the need for robust marketing structures.
Dr. Otokunor criticized the input distribution system under the Planting for Food and Jobs initiative, citing monopolistic control by a few companies that hinder transparency and farmer benefits.
He emphasized the disconnect between agriculture production and food systems, stressing the necessity for aligned policies to improve efficiency.
Addressing market access problems faced by farmers, particularly during the tomato season, he underscored the importance of enhancing transportation and aggregation systems to prevent post-harvest losses.
Dr. Otokunor advocated for agro-processing and value-addition programs aimed at achieving agro-industrialization to boost sector effectiveness.
He highlighted the significance of convenience in food security, noting the popularity of quick-to-prepare foods like Indomie as an example of consumer preference for convenience.
Dr Otokunor urged policymakers to prioritize reforms that integrate agriculture production with food systems and enhance the accessibility and efficiency of agricultural subsidies and markets in Ghana.
