Ketu North faces rice market crisis despite production boom – MCE

The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ketu North Municipal, Martin Amenaki, has raised concern over the growing challenges confronting rice farmers in the area, despite the municipality’s strong reputation as a leading food production hub.

Speaking in an interview with Class Media Group's Volta Regional Correspondent, he highlighted the paradox of increased production coupled with a lack of ready markets.

According to Amenaki, Ketu North currently ranks among the top rice-producing areas in the Volta Region, with communities such as, Klenormadi, Dekpor, Afife, Weta, Penyi and parts of Dzodze actively engaged in large-scale rice farming.

He noted that rice from the area is widely regarded for its high nutritional value and quality, making it competitive on both local and national markets.

However, the MCE lamented that farmers are struggling to sell their produce due to market constraints.

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He attributed the situation partly to increased investments in rice production, including the distribution of thousands of bags of fertilizer to farmers.

While these interventions boosted output, they have also resulted in a surplus, leaving many farmers with unsold stock and limited financial capacity to prepare for the next farming season.

Amenaki therefore called on investors, traders, and institutions in need of rice to turn their attention to Ketu North.

He revealed that efforts are being made to open up warehouse facilities to store excess produce for the lean season, while some organizations have already expressed interest in purchasing large quantities.

He warned that failure to secure markets for the rice could negatively affect the upcoming production cycle.

Highlighting key agricultural infrastructure, the MCE praised the role of the Volta Irrigation Development Authority, describing it as a major source of livelihood for over 800 households.

He disclosed that recent technical issues with the dam’s water control gates had been successfully resolved through the intervention of the scheme manager and his team, ensuring continued support for irrigation farming.

He revealed that about 25 fish ponds within the irrigation enclave are set for revival, following renewed investor interest.

He further indicated that the World Bank is expected to support the rehabilitation of the irrigation facility, a move he believes will significantly boost employment and agricultural productivity in the area.

Encouraging the youth to embrace agriculture, Amenaki emphasized that farming is a viable and profitable venture. He shared his personal experience as a poultry and maize farmer, noting that his earnings from farming surpass his previous income as a teacher.

He urged young people to take advantage of training opportunities, including those offered through his own farm and ongoing NGO-supported poultry initiatives, to build sustainable livelihoods in agriculture.

He revealed that about 25 fish ponds within the irrigation enclave are set for revival, following renewed investor interest.

He further indicated that the World Bank is expected to support the rehabilitation of the irrigation facility, a move he believes will significantly boost employment and agricultural productivity in the area.