Franklin Cudjoe, Founding President of IMANI Africa, has urgently called on the government to address the ongoing drought in Northern Ghana, emphasizing that the economy and its citizens are too vulnerable to endure additional crises.
In a statement on his Facebook page, Cudjoe acknowledged the efforts of the Ministers of Agriculture, Finance, and Defence to manage the situation but stressed the need for a more robust response.
“Good morning, Dr. Bawumia. There are reports of looming food shortages in the north due to poor rains,” Cudjoe wrote.
“We must be proactive to avoid the harshest effects of this impending food crisis.
It is crucial to develop alternative strategies beyond relying on rainfall and to build adequate storage facilities.”
Cudjoe also questioned the effectiveness of the One Village One Dam initiative, which was heavily promoted as a solution to irrigation challenges.
“Dr. Bawumia, you led the campaign for One Village One Dam as a critical strategy to enhance irrigation.
Given the significant investments made, what is the current status of these dams, and when will they provide relief?” he asked.
In response, the government has outlined its measures to ensure food security. Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adams announced plans to raise $500 million (GH₵8 billion) through a combination of the Contingency Fund, budget realignment, and development partner contributions.
“The drought affects all Ghanaians, regardless of political affiliation,” Adams said.
“We are implementing stringent measures to distribute resources fairly to the farmers most in need.”
Adams acknowledged that while the government’s response may not entirely resolve the crisis, it will stabilize the situation as efforts continue. “Our response aims to stabilize the situation until we overcome the crisis,” he added.
