Gov’t steps in to address marketing challenges facing Atebubu-Amantin farmers

The Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, has assured Parliament that the government is implementing measures to support maize and bean farmers in the Atebubu-Amantin District following marketing challenges that left many unable to sell their produce last year.

Addressing Parliament, the Deputy Minister said the Ministry of Food and Agriculture has commenced the nationwide distribution of agricultural inputs ahead of the 2026 major cropping season to boost productivity and improve crop yields.

He explained that the Ministry is also working in partnership with the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) to strengthen the marketing of locally produced grains and provide farmers with more reliable access to markets.

According to Mr Dumelo, NAFCO has been instructed to step up the purchase of surplus maize, rice and soya beans to help address the marketing bottlenecks that have affected farmers and ensure excess harvests are absorbed.

“The Ministry is working closely with the National Food Buffer Stock Company to strengthen the purchase and marketing of locally produced grain and has directed NAFCO to intensify the purchase of surplus maize, rice and soya beans from farmers to help address the marketing difficulties and provide a ready market for their produce,” he told the House.

Mr Dumelo, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, said the interventions are expected to stabilise grain prices, improve farmers’ incomes and contribute to the country’s food security.

He added that the initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic grain value chains, minimise post-harvest losses and expand market access for farmers, particularly during periods of bumper harvests when oversupply often drives down farmgate prices.

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