Stakeholders call for national focus on organic agriculture in Ghana

Stakeholders and experts in Agriculture have called for a national shift and focus on organic agriculture in Ghana.

According to these experts who have raised concerns about the country’s food import bill which is skyrocketing, reducing reliance on imported food, GMOs, and chemical fertilizers is key to achieving food sovereignty.

Addressing the gathering of farmers, students, and dignitaries at the second edition of Organic Farmers’ Day held at the University College of Agriculture and Environmental Studies (UCAES) in Bunso, the President of Eco Land International Rudolf Bühler explained that organic agriculture is vital for sustainable land use and protecting Ghana’s natural resources.

“Ghana’s food import bill has averaged $2 billion per year, with products like rice, poultry, sugar, and tomatoes making up a large share, food sovereignty should be a national priority to reduce its dependency on food imports. Eco land has taken the initiative to develop and secure accreditation for the Organic agriculture diploma at the University of Agriculture and Environmental Studies and the establishment of a demonstration and research field and we will again help the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to develop a draft bill on Organic farming.”

Dr. Isaac Adodoadji, a long-term expert with Ecoland, stressed that Africa’s rising food prices and malnutrition require urgent action through sustainable agricultural practices.

“Ecoland Ghana is working through the Partner Africa Project to empower over 1,200 members and train 700 farmers in organic and climate-friendly farming. This is a game changer which will improve the activities of farmers and provide them with good returns”.

On his part, Osabarima Adusei Peasah II, Tafohene, who represented Okyenhene Osaagyefo Amoatia Ofori Panin called for resilience among farmers and better policies to support organic agriculture.