JICA commits GH¢35m to support rice seed production plant in Northern Ghana

The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has disclosed that the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has pledged GH¢35 million to support the establishment of a local rice seed production plant in Northern Ghana.

This initiative forms part of the government’s broader agenda to strengthen food security and transform the agricultural sector through enhanced rice production and farmer support systems.

According to the minister, the project will prioritize training irrigation scheme officers and farmers in the operation and maintenance of modern agricultural equipment, thereby boosting efficiency across Ghana’s rice value chain.

He explained that the facility will be equipped with advanced machinery to ensure the timely production of rice seedlings while expanding farmers’ access to quality rice seeds nationwide.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting on Tuesday, May 13, 2026, Eric Opoku stated that the project aligns with President John Dramani Mahama’s vision under the “Feed Ghana Programme,” which seeks to guarantee a stable food supply throughout the year and reduce reliance on imports.

“The establishment of this plant is directly consistent with His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama’s vision for food security under the ‘Feed Ghana Programme,’ which is projected to ensure adequate food supplies all year round,” the minister stated.

He further assured stakeholders of the government’s commitment to ensuring the proper use of funds to achieve the objectives of the Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda.

“As Minister, I pledge the government’s commitment to the judicious use of this financial support, with the aim of fully realizing the goals of the Agriculture for Economic Transformation Agenda—achieving food security and strengthening Ghana’s agricultural sector through strategic investment and capacity development,” he added.

The rice seed production plant is expected to boost local rice production, enhance farmer productivity, and advance Ghana’s efforts toward self-sufficiency in food production.

SO/SA

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