Rice is one of the major crops consumed in Ghana. Historically in Ghana, the reliance has been on imports despite its significance as a staple food and cash crop.
However, recent efforts aim to bolster local production to meet domestic demand.
Despite fluctuations in paddy rice production over the years, total rice consumption has surged, driven by factors such as population growth and urbanization.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by import dependency, the government has prioritized initiatives to enhance domestic rice production.
Addressing the bottlenecks along the rice value chain, the government’s flagship program, “Planting for Food and Jobs,” places emphasis on rice as a priority crop, providing support to farmers through subsidized inputs and extension services.
Additionally, the government’s Special Rice Initiative seeks to distribute improved seeds at the district level.
In an interview with RGGNEWS, Nana Yaw Adu Poku, a farmer, shared insights on the complexities of local rice production in Ghana.
He mentioned
the cost disparity between locally produced rice and imported varieties, noting that while foreign rice remains slightly more competitive in terms of price, efforts are underway to bridge this gap and promote appreciation for locally grown rice among farmers.
Moreover, he emphasized the importance of addressing yield challenges faced by farmers, attributing them to the need for farmers to recoup their investment costs directly from consumers.
Nana Yaw Poku also noted that the preference for foreign rice among Ghanaians stems from cultural factors and historical availability but acknowledged the increasing awareness and consumption of locally produced rice in recent years.
However, he also pointed out the struggles farmers face with mechanical services required for rice farming, which ultimately affects the quality of the rice produced.
He mentioned the absence of previous subsidies on fertilizers, indicating a shift in support systems for farmers from the government.
In conclusion, Yaw Adu Poku was optimistic about the increasing production and consumption of local rice, driven by growing awareness campaigns and changing consumer preferences.
