Accra, Ghana – June 3, 2026 – The Ministry of Finance has released GH¢1.677 billion, an amount representing 85% of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture’s approved 2026 budget for Goods and Services and Capital Expenditure (CAPEX). This significant disbursement was announced by Deputy Minister for Finance Thomas Nyarko Ampem during the launch of Ghana’s National Pact for Agricultural Transformation, Food Security, and Employment (AgriConnect Compact) today.
Challenging Funding Claims
The announcement directly addresses recent claims suggesting a lack of adequate funding for key government ministries and state institutions. Mr. Nyarko Ampem emphasized that President Mahama’s administration is actively aligning its agricultural transformation goals with substantial financial backing and strategic investments.
A Comprehensive Agricultural Vision
Speaking at the AgriConnect Compact launch, Mr. Nyarko Ampem highlighted the government’s deep commitment to the agricultural sector. He stated that this commitment is demonstrated through several flagship programs currently underway, spearheaded by President John Dramani Mahama.
The government’s vision, he explained, goes beyond merely increasing food production. It aims to fundamentally transform the entire agricultural value chain. This includes enhancing food security, creating employment opportunities, and bolstering overall economic growth.
Targeted Financial Allocations
To realize this ambitious agenda, significant financial resources have been allocated and released. Mr. Nyarko Ampem provided a detailed breakdown of the GH¢1.677 billion disbursement:
- GH¢581.4 million allocated for the establishment of 50 Farmer Service Centres nationwide. These centres are intended to enhance mechanization services and boost farmer productivity.
- GH¢110 million dedicated to irrigation infrastructure projects. This funding aims to extend the farming season throughout the year and mitigate reliance on unpredictable rainfall patterns.
- GH¢515.3 million earmarked for the provision of fertilizers and certified seeds. The goal is to significantly improve crop yields and increase overall food production across the country.
- GH¢244.9 million allocated to the Poultry Farm-to-Table Project (Nkoko Nkitinkiti). This initiative seeks to support and stimulate growth within Ghana’s poultry industry.
- GH¢200 million directed to the National Food Buffer Stock Company. This funding is intended to tackle long-standing issues related to the storage, distribution, and trading of agricultural produce.
Implications for the Agricultural Sector
The substantial release of funds signals a strong governmental push towards modernizing and strengthening Ghana’s agricultural sector. The focus on mechanization, irrigation, improved inputs, and value chain support indicates a strategic approach to long-term sustainability and economic contribution.
The establishment of Farmer Service Centres and the support for the poultry industry are expected to create jobs and improve livelihoods in rural and peri-urban areas. Enhanced storage through the National Food Buffer Stock Company could help stabilize food prices and reduce post-harvest losses.
Looking Ahead
With these significant financial commitments now flowing into the sector, attention will turn to the effective implementation of these projects. The success of the AgriConnect Compact and the government’s broader agricultural transformation agenda will hinge on efficient resource management and measurable outcomes in productivity, food security, and employment generation. Stakeholders will be closely monitoring the rollout of these initiatives in the coming months.
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