By: Celestine Avi and Seth Eyiah
President John Dramani Mahama has cut the sod for the construction of Ghana’s first Farmer Services Centre at Takoratwene in the Afram Plains, marking a major step toward modernising agriculture and improving farmer support systems across the country.
The initiative, a key campaign promise, is designed to transform farming through mechanisation, training, storage, and market access.
A Shift from Traditional to Modern Agriculture
President Mahama says Ghana must move beyond reliance on basic tools such as cutlasses and hoes, stressing that modern, mechanised agriculture is essential for competitiveness and food security.
He noted that developed countries have advanced due to their adoption of technology in farming, urging Ghanaian farmers to embrace similar innovations.
Farmer Services Centre: More Than a Tractor Station
The President explained that the Farmer Services Centre goes beyond the old tractor station model, serving as a comprehensive, one-stop hub for agricultural transformation.
The facility will provide farmers with access to a wide range of mechanised services and essential farming support under one roof.
Access to Modern Farming Equipment
The centre will be equipped with tractors, combine harvesters, threshers, and other modern machinery to improve efficiency and reduce manual labour.
A dedicated maintenanceunit will also be established to ensure that all equipment remains functional and readily available to farmers.
Training and Capacity Building
Registered farmers will benefit from continuous training on modern farming techniques.
Experts at the centre will regularly engage farmers, equipping them with knowledge on best practices to enhance productivity and sustainability.
Soil Testing and Smart Farming
The facility will include soil testing services to guide farmers on suitable crops and the right type of fertiliser to use.
This intervention is expected to improve yields and minimise farming losses.
Why Afram Plains
The Afram Plains, widely regarded as one of Ghana’s major food baskets, produces key crops such as maize, cassava, and groundnuts.
President Mahama says the area was strategically chosen for the first centre due to its critical role in national food production.
Input Support for Farmers
Farmers registered under the programme will have direct access to improved seeds and fertilisers through the centre, with technical officers available to provide guidance.
Storage, Warehousing and Better Market Prices
The centre will include warehouses and silos to store produce after harvest.
This will prevent farmers from selling at low prices immediately after harvest, allowing produce to be sold later at more favourable market rates.
Introduction of Minimum Price Policy
Government will introduce a minimum recommended price for farm produce annually to guarantee fair returns for farmers.
This policy is expected to protect farmers from market fluctuations and exploitation.
Boosting Buffer Stock Operations
Through the National Buffer Stock Company, government continues to support food purchases for institutions.
Funding has been increased from 200 million cedis last year to 300 million cedis this year, with further allocations expected if necessary.
No New Permits for Maize Imports
President Mahama assured that no new permits have been issued for maize imports, as existing stocks remain sufficient.
He emphasized that government’s priority is to support local farmers and boost domestic production.
Free Fertiliser for Farmers
In response to losses recorded during last year’s bumper harvest, government will provide fertiliser free of charge this season instead of the usual subsidised rates.
The move is aimed at reducing the financial burden on farmers.
Infrastructure Development to Support Agriculture
Government has awarded a contract for the construction of the Adawso–Ekyi Amanfrom bridge across the Afram River.
The project, to be undertaken by SONITRA Constructions Limited, is expected to improve transportation and ease the movement of goods.
Expansion of Irrigation Systems
To reduce reliance on rainfall, government has initiated irrigation projects covering about 900 hectares in the Afram Plains.
These lands will be allocated to farmers to support year-round farming and ensure consistent food supply.
Call for Fair Land Rental Practices
President Mahama cautioned against exploitative land rental charges, stressing that fees exceeding 200 cedis per season are unlawful and must be stopped.
Road Development Under Big Push Programme
The President has directed that the Adawso to Abloblodepke road be included in the Big Push infrastructure programme to improve accessibility in the area.
A New Era for Agriculture
President Mahama described the Farmer Services Centre as a bold initiative to modernise agriculture, increase productivity, and make farming a profitable venture.
He expressed confidence that with the right support, the Afram Plains can become a major driver of food security and economic growth in Ghana.
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