The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has dismissed reports of disagreements between his Ministry and the Ministry of Finance. He stated that both institutions remain committed to advancing the government's Reset Agenda. According to him, misunderstandings and miscommunication may occur between institutions, but it should not be interpreted as evidence that one ministry is working against another.
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, Mr. Opoku emphasized that the two ministries are working towards the same national development objectives. He mentioned that the Reset Agenda, introduced by President Mahama, is a shared goal. The Minister acknowledged that misunderstandings can occur, even within families and smaller groups, but said such situations do not mean the parties are working separately.
Mr. Opoku urged the public not to create the impression that some government ministries are working against others. He added that it is essential to avoid creating an erroneous impression that may undermine the collaborative efforts of government ministries. The Minister's comments come amid reports of a supposed rift between the Agric and Finance Ministries.
On the issue of rice imports, Mr. Opoku ruled out a total ban, citing that domestic production currently accounts for about 56 percent of Ghana's total rice demand. He stated that the remaining 44 percent supply gap would have to be met through imports while the government works towards achieving rice self-sufficiency by 2028.
The Minister explained that Ghana imports food because domestic production is currently insufficient to meet demand. He noted that if the country is able to produce what it eats sufficiently, there would be no need to import food. Mr. Opoku emphasized that the government's approach is to regulate imports rather than impose a complete ban.
Mr. Opoku reiterated that the government's ultimate objective is to achieve self-sufficiency in rice production by 2028. He stressed that the goal is to produce enough rice to meet the country's demand, reducing reliance on imports. The Minister's comments provide insight into the government's strategy for addressing food production and importation.
The clarification by Mr. Opoku aims to alleviate concerns about a supposed rift between the Agric and Finance Ministries. His statements demonstrate the government's commitment to collaboration and achieving national development objectives. The Ministry of Food and Agriculture and the Ministry of Finance are working together to implement policies that promote sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth.
Key points
- The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has dismissed reports of a rift between his Ministry and the Ministry of Finance.
- Domestic rice production currently accounts for 56 percent of Ghana's total rice demand, with the remaining 44 percent met through imports.
- The government aims to achieve self-sufficiency in rice production by 2028.
