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The Peasant Farmers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has called on President John Dramani Mahama to appoint a capable and experienced Minister for Food and Agriculture who can address the sector’s pressing challenges.
In a statement congratulating President Mahama on his inauguration, the Association emphasized the need for a nominee with a strong agricultural background and the ability to effectively engage stakeholders in the agricultural value chain.
“We humbly request that you nominate a Minister for the agricultural sector who possesses a strong agricultural background, relevant experience, and the ability to connect with stakeholders across the value chain,” the statement said.
PFAG pledged its support for smallholder farmers and its commitment to advancing agricultural development under President Mahama’s leadership. The Association expressed optimism that the sector could achieve significant progress with the right leadership and policies.
Call to Address Illegal Mining
The Association also urged the President to uphold his commitment to combating illegal mining, known as galamsey, which has severely impacted farmlands, forests, and water bodies. PFAG called for strict enforcement of bans on mining in protected areas and the implementation of a comprehensive land reclamation program to restore damaged farmlands.
Pwalugu Multi-Purpose Dam
PFAG highlighted the potential of the Pwalugu Multi-Purpose Dam to contribute significantly to agricultural growth and climate change mitigation. The dam, when properly executed, could increase agricultural GDP by 20% to 30%.
However, the Association criticized the previous administration for mismanaging the project and using it as an avenue for extortion without accountability. They urged President Mahama to prioritize an audit of the dam project as part of his Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) agenda.
“Recognizing that an audit of the Pwalugu Multi-Purpose Dam is part of your agenda to ensure accountability under the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), we urge you to ensure that any illegal funds are recovered and returned to the state. Additionally, we request a budgetary allocation to commence construction of the dam within your first 120 days,” PFAG stated.
The Association believes these measures will ensure transparency, accountability, and a renewed focus on agricultural development, ultimately benefiting smallholder farmers and the nation at large.
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