North East Region, Ghana – Over a year after a presidential promise to establish a rice mill in Jadema, residents and farmers are still awaiting visible progress, with the project stalled and no construction underway. The initiative, intended to bolster local rice production, create employment, and enhance farmer livelihoods, has yet to materialize beyond initial pledges.
Context of the Unfulfilled Promise
Jadema, an area recognized for its significant rice farming potential, was selected for the proposed mill as part of wider government strategies to strengthen agricultural value chains. The project aimed to address critical issues such as post-harvest losses and processing capacity, thereby stimulating economic growth in the Mamprugu Moagduri District and the broader North East Region.
The delay has sparked growing concerns and questioning among local farmers regarding the government’s commitment to its agricultural development agenda. The absence of tangible steps towards the mill’s establishment leaves a crucial development opportunity untapped in a region heavily reliant on agriculture.
Regional Minister Acknowledges Delays, Promises Renewed Efforts
Responding to the persistent concerns, North East Regional Minister Ibrahim Tia acknowledged the lack of progress during the maiden edition of the Government Accountability Series in Nalerigu. He confirmed that steps are now being taken to re-engage stakeholders and revive discussions surrounding the rice mill project.
Minister Tia indicated that the regional administration plans to initiate fresh engagements with the World Food Programme (WFP), identified as the sponsor of the initiative. These discussions aim to clarify the project’s current status and identify and address the bottlenecks hindering its implementation.
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