The Deputy Minister for Food and Agriculture, John Dumelo, says the government will soon begin commissioning several farm service centres across the country as part of efforts to boost agricultural productivity and improve farmers’ access to essential services.
Speaking on the JoyNews AM Show during a discussion on “Ghana @ 69: Reclaiming Food Security”, Mr Dumelo revealed that construction of a number of farm service centres will begin in the coming weeks, with the President expected to cut the sod to officially commence the projects.
According to him, the first phase will begin in the Afram Plains, where the President is expected to officially cut the sod for the establishment of new farm service centres.
“Coincidentally, next week or in the next two weeks, the President will be cutting the sod for the farm service centres in Afram Plains,” he said.
Mr Dumelo further disclosed that the government plans to commence work on about a dozen centres this year alone.
“This year alone, we will cut the sod for almost 11 or 12 farm service centres,” he stated.
The Deputy Minister explained that the broader goal is to establish an extensive network of farm service centres nationwide within the government’s four-year term.
The initiative, he noted, is intended to provide farmers with access to mechanisation, fertiliser, improved seeds, other agricultural inputs and technical assistance.
Mr Dumelo stressed that the centres will serve as hubs where farmers can obtain a range of essential services required to improve productivity and efficiency in the sector.
“The truth of the matter is that the farm service centres are going to be established so that farmers can have access to mechanisation, fertiliser, seeds and other inputs, as well as technical assistance,” he explained.
Responding to claims that no farm service centres have been established, Mr Dumelo said he disagrees with that assertion, stressing that plans are underway to roll out the facilities to support farmers.
“When people say we have not established any farm service centres and ask where they are, I beg to differ,” he said. “I can confidently say that this is something that is being worked on.”
The planned centres are expected to form a key part of the government’s broader strategy to boost food production, strengthen agricultural value chains and enhance food security in Ghana.
Source:
www.myjoyonline.com