September 24, 2024

Ghana's presidential candidate vows to revive poultry industry

The presidential candidate of Ghana's National Democratic Congress (NDC), former President John Dramani Mahama, has outlined a comprehensive agricultural policy aimed at revitalising Ghana's collapsing poultry industry, Modern Ghana reported.

The policy, which forms part of the party's 2024 manifesto, includes providing incentives for farmers and promoting local consumption through the 'Buy Ghana' initiative.

Mahama announced plans to launch a 'Poultry Farm to Table' (PFT) project in collaboration with Poultry Farmers Associations to increase poultry production. Additionally, a Livestock Development Project (LDP) will be introduced to enhance the production of meat and dairy, with a focus on cattle, swine, and small ruminants. To promote the livestock sector's contributions to economic growth, Mahama also proposed the creation of a National Livestock Day.

The former president outlined further steps to support the sector, including the introduction of new livestock breeds and the establishment of Capacity Building Centres for livestock production. Plans are also in place to revive abandoned ranches, farms, and meat factories, with particular attention to facilities in Wulugu, Zuarungu, Kpong, Aveyime, and Adidome.

One key initiative in Mahama's plan is the Broiler Production Cooperatives (BPC) project. This programme would involve 160,000 rural women, each raising 100 birds every six months. The project is part of the broader Ghana First agenda, which focuses on industrialisation, revitalisation, support, and transformation.

Mahama also emphasised plans to revitalise the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, along with promoting the blue economy. He committed to collaborating with Landing Beach Committees and using technology to tackle corruption in the distribution of premix fuel. Additionally, a Blue Economy Commission would be established to regulate marine and freshwater resources sustainably.

In the aquaculture sector, the NDC government intends to improve fish genetics, support commercial fingerling production, strengthen quality assurance, and enhance disease control. Resources will be provided for research and development in fisheries, while technical and financial support will be extended to women and youth involved in sustainable aquaculture and fish farming under the Aqua/Cage-culture Project (ACP).

Mahama also pledged to enforce laws that ensure sustainable fishing practices, improve education in fishing communities, and develop alternative livelihoods for fishermen. These measures aim to improve the well-being of fishing communities and alleviate pressure on fish stocks.

-      Modern Ghana