Government moves to support maize and bean farmers in Atebubu-Amantin

The Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, has told Parliament that government is introducing interventions to assist maize and bean farmers in the Atebubu-Amantin District after last year’s marketing difficulties left many unable to sell their harvests.

He explained on the floor of the House that the Ministry of Food and Agriculture has already begun distributing agricultural inputs nationwide ahead of the 2026 main cropping season, as part of efforts to increase production and improve yields.

Dumelo said the Ministry is also partnering with the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) to improve the marketing of grain and provide farmers with a more dependable sales channel.

He noted that NAFCO has been directed to increase its purchases of surplus maize, rice and soya beans from farmers to ease marketing constraints and absorb excess production.

“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 the National Food Buffer Stock Company (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 said.

The Deputy Minister, who is also Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, said the measures are expected to stabilise grain prices, improve farmers’ earnings and enhance national food security.

The interventions form part of broader government efforts to strengthen domestic grain value chains, reduce post-harvest losses and improve market access, particularly during periods of high yields when oversupply often leads to lower farmgate prices.